Thank you all for responding. I am learning a lot.
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"Help me understand your situ...you need brakes, (pads & maybe/probably rotors), and you want to go buy those parts, and then take those parts to a mechanic for him to install? "
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Yes, I was thinking about that. I figured if I can save more than $200 and buy better parts, why not? The thing is that doing this at a dealership is way too much money and I don't know a trustworthy indy around here. If an indy (that would do all 4 for 800) use cheaper parts and tell me that they used OEM parts, I wouldn't know the difference. The only way to make sure is to buy the parts myself.
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"Not sure I have run across many quality shops that encourage the customer to bring in his their own maintenance parts."
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You have a point there.
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"Most shops won't let customers bring in part b/c the 'warranty' on the work can't / won't be offered with customer-sourced parts. The truth is that they make a profit on the parts (this is normal). This warranty excuse is generally BS especially if you're buying / using OEM parts. Bavarian Autohaus in NH is a reputable BMW parts source."
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Thanks for the NH source. Would they do it if I say, just give me a warranty on the labor quality or that I don't want a warranty on parts?
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"Brakes and rotor replacement is one of the easier DIY repairs. If you don't wanna do it or lack the tools, a local shop can put them in for you."
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You are right, I don't have the tools or the garage space, unfortunately. Still want to save some money though. And if I can learn a little about parts, all the better - since I plan to keep this car for a while.
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"I would avoid the chain shops (Midas, Jiffy Lube) and use a local mechanic (i.e. the shell station) someone who you trust. You don't need a BMW specialist to do this kind of work."
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Really? Nice. Very useful info. So brakes are brakes then. Thanks!
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"My indy mechanic is very good and lets me bring my own parts. He even tells me if I can do better on ebay or wherever. My mechanic says he makes at most 10% on parts."
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Question: I know indys usually order the parts. When I pay, am I paying the shipping expense as well? If they don't charge me shipping, say they have it there in stock, it might be more practical to pay them to 10% mark up, since I'll pay ~$60 for shipping it seems.
FYI, the only reason I am trying to save every penny is that I need to buy all new tires very soon and also need to re-tint the entire car (they are coming off) in the next 2 months or so.