I also maintain my own pool but use a pool guy to basically just blow out the lines. That's the part of closing that can be really expensive if you don't do it right. He knows not to add any chemicals. Here's my approach:
A few days before closing I raise the FC up to shock level and keep circulating. I would do an OCLT if I had any concerns. Then the night before he arrives, I pump the water down to the proper winter level for my pool and remove and clean the cartridges. He comes and blows out the lines and add antifreeze to them. Then I put the cover on and remove the pump to store inside. I get charged $240 plus any new plugs needed and antifreeze. It's a nice compromise for me. I get peace of mind that the lines are blown out correctly, and nothing unwanted is added to my pool.
I do not add any algaecide because I close after the temp goes below 60 and open before it gets to 60. And even with a mesh cover, I have clear water every spring (aside from a possible worm invasion). If you close before or open after 60 degrees, adding a Polyquat 60 algaecide (don't use any other types of algaecides) can be advisable to assist with algae not getting started as FC gets depleted. Others add FC under the cover and mix but I'm not a big advocate of adding anything without a pump running. It can be OK if done right but not as a general rule.
Opening is easy so long as you understand your equipment. Remove cover, add water, install pump, install cartridges in filter, adjust valves and for me, add MA, chlorine, salt when it warms up, CYA (and possibly CH) to get balanced.
