Can I buy a locked iPhone for cheaper and pay a price to unlock it?

I know the question sounds a bit naive, but I don't understand much about iPhones.

Just to put in context: A family member from another country wants to buy an iPhone 5c in the US And use it there. I know there's an option to buy a factory unlocked phone, but it's kind of expensive.

I heard they're selling the iPhone 5c at Walmart for $45. Awesome, if it didn't come with a contract… However, I've hear of websites that unlock your phone for $25-$70.

I'm not sure if Walmart's offer expired or anything, however, being completely optimistic that would only cost my aunt 70$ to buy and use an unlocked iPhone in her home country?

Seems too good to be true.

Thanks, in advance!

Added (1). Thing is, Mr. AWESOME! She doesn't live in the US And that's not really my question.

3 year contracts no longer exist, so buying a phone with a contract isn't as bad now.

Why not just buy it regularly for a slightly higher price and skipping all the trouble.

Yes, you can buy locked iPhone and get it opened if you want to enjoy iPhone mobility at cheap cost. There's no problem in doing this.

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