<prompt> Human: We purchased our forever house meaning 15-18 years...good schools nearby and we have little kids, near family, etc in a San Diego suburb for 600K three years ago. Small mortgage as it was originally bought as an investment property when we lived in NYC.We did some interior remodeling before we moved in last summer 75Kand now the final project is replacing a wood deck that extends out from the concrete patiopool area deck area will be 1100 sq feet plus the patio and pool area so it is pretty good size. Bids for the project are coming in around 100K exotic hardwood, glass railing to protect the view, and a new retaining wall to meet codes. I can afford it, but is that a crazy amount to spend relative to the value of the house? The neighborhood is definitely appreciating, but we are already probably toward the upper end as it is.We already spend a ton of time out back now, and that would only increase with the new deck but would love some help rationalizing this or not. ThanksEDIT: Added some additional details belowKeystone retaining wall and backfill required by code and specifics of grade 15KCassons 8kDemo and remove old deck 7KAssistant: I think it is crazy. Why does it have to be exotic hardwood instead of a normal hardwood? Are you going to stare at it every day and weep that it is not oak or something?I understand the glass railing and retention walls.I think in San Diego a deck and outdoor living space have enormous value. Im not a realtor just a homeowner and buyer. A deck doesnt have the same value in an area where you can only use it 13 or 12 of a year vs a place where it is an open air room of your home.Human: Appreciate the input as that was my exact initial thought as well...treated redwood should be fine. But seeing the bids the cost of materials actually is not that much more to upgrade to something like Mangaris Diamond. The maintenance is much less and it does look better. Thanks!  <response>: I think if it is not that much more to get the wood that you really want then you should absolutely go for it. Im of the mindset that if its worth doing then its worth doing it right the first time. Particularly if it requires less maintenance - to me that justifies the extra cost alone. 