We're really talking about taking care of rock damage with a diamond stone, keeping the side edges sharp, and waxing.
We're not really talking about flattening the base, structuring the base, setting the base bevel, or setting the side bevel-this stuff gets done once in a great while at the shop.
So you need a diamond stone, a side file guide, and a way to wax, scrape, and brush (or just wax and brush with this kind of thing http://www.alpineskituning.com/raysway.waxwhiz.htm)
Oh yeah, something to put the board on when you're working on it too.
So yes, definitely, you need to learn these skills and buy this stuff but it'll be easy and not cost that much. And it will be SO WORTH IT!! Honest :)