How long before it pays off? I don't even understand what that means. Nothing pays off after you drop dead, it was all wasted. And everything pays off if you enjoy your time with it while you have it.
I'm retired, don't do a thing all day, :smile: Nothing but time. I have a 9' Gold Crown in my basement. I don't use it at all, not even one bit, unless a friend comes over to play some straight pool or one pocket, maybe 3 times a week. Its strange, I don't even have much desire to go out and play anymore. All the damned pool rooms open when I'm ready to go night night.
I get bored out of my mind if I even try to practice for 5 minutes down there, but regardless, I wouldn't be without the table for a second. I absolutely love the time I do get to play with friends or acquaintances.
We have considered moving, but I wouldn't even think of buying a house unless I could comfortably fit a 9' table in it.
Believe it or not, it's easier than you think lots of times to fit a 9' table. Steel plating can let you remove lally columns. Probably stronger than before.
I have some photos of how I did it if you have any interest in adding room by removing a column.
I wouldn't be happy with anything less than a 9 foot table, I know I'd always be wishing I did it right to begin with. But ... that's me.