You are correct about a big price variation. I live in Pa so we have some great lumber/lumber yards. At Hearne hardwoods these slabs together which measured 10ft by about 30 inches would have cost me atleast 2k maybe even close to 2500. I purchased these at Groff and Groff which is pretty much the only place I buy from these days. Great selection and very good pricing. I payed 1300. A bargain for what the table has been valued at.