Plumbing Moonlighters... this is a typical request

Hello, I need either a handyman or moonlighting plumber......., really just need a guy who has a torch, knows how to solder and can do a small job for me.  I have an existing Hot Water heater that I am considering raising up on cinder blocks. Water gets in the basement and can knock out the pilot which can then be stubborn to get re-lit......have needed to call in a pro before.  So.....just need someone to stop by and, in ONE DAY, cut the water feed pipes, raise it onto cinder blocks (like 1-2ft higher) and then re-solder the water connections. To tell you the truth, I am not sure if there is a rigid gas pipe to the water heater or not (so that could be another connection too).  I think the ONLY issue regarding how high to raise the water heater is: Making sure the exhaust vent fits properly into the chimney and that the gases are going up the chimney (eg. can't have the exhaust vent pipe level or above the chimney opening, right?).  My thought is, for an experienced person, this is like a 1-2hr job. - drain water heater- turn off water main- cut water feed and output pipes- disconnect gas feed- put down 1-2 (?) cinder blocks- put water heater onto blocks- reconnect/re-solder - turn on water main- check for leaks- call me and COLLECT $$$$.  You can take a look and call me with a price.  Other thought......what does a new water heater cost?  The current one is about 7-8 yrs old.....would it be smart to just put in a new one??  Thanks