When you got the second opinion, did you TELL him what needed to be done or did you ASK him? My mother almost made a mistake by telling the 2nd repairman what needed to be done. He was honest and told her it didn't need all that work. As a result she was saved from spending $1000s. And I'm with the others, that's a lot to change out the water heater. I'm also questioning the cost of the dishwasher problem. Unfortunately, there are people out there that will take people for everything they can. Be sure to check and make sure the person is LICENSED and BONDED to do that kind of work. If you have an unlicensed person come into your home YOU are liable for any problems and/or accidents.