That's a LOT of money... DIY?

You mention 'friends'... do you mean handymen? A good handyman, a rare thing these days, can save you a literal fortune compared to professional installation, (the term 'professional' used in places like Lowes, HomeDepot, is VERY generous).

For example... we have a local handyman who is quite good. I did an estimate at HomeDepot and Lowes for a new tile shower.... Lowe's and HomeDepot right at $6,000. The Handyman? $1,500. - JamesJM