Coilovers are legal, as long as you don't drop the car too low

A set of STi struts maybe an option,, KYBs, which are adjustable. But they won't be 800 at the current exchange rate

Alternatively, get a set of standard STi struts (not adjustable) second hand. Will be half your budget.

I assume the quote is for supply, fit and alignment
$1200? for the set
2-3 hrs to install, 3 x 70-80hr, 240
alignment, 150

that's a fair bit