Probably not 30k. Maybe closer to 5-10k depending when he bought it and how. Second hand stuff can be real cheap, whereas brand new server gear costs an arm and a leg so it could be 30k+ if he bought most of it new. The real cost is the amount of time it has taken to configure it all and get it working well, which I can attest can be a boatload of time.

My setup is maybe a bit more overkill and I’ve probably spent closer to 30k, especially once you factor in storage, nearly all of the server equipment second hand. You know you’ve gone overboard when you’re talking about running 100gbit to more rooms, you have a categorization system for keeping the compatible sfp modules and cabling organized, and needing a second whole 42u rack with a couple in service servers on chairs waiting for said rack.