Not sure I agree with your last post Jim (apart from the wallet bit)
I built a small pond, then increased it, and again and again till it ended up being a 6000 gal pond (more like a swimming pool). Bought some 3 inch Koi from Sway Lakes and by the time I moved about 9 years later there were a couple of them well over 24" long. They used to come to the side of the pond and eat from my hands too.
I built a smaller (but deeper) tank when I moved but alas my babies didnt survive for long
Fantastic, relaxing & rewarding hobby once you get it right. Bul very frustrating, expensive and saddening when you dont.