So here's the overview of the entire project:
Glass: 1/4" thick, pre-cut when ordered, non-sanded. About $40 for all 10 pieces
Silicone: DAP 100% Silicone gifted from family member. Free
Substrate: Quikrete Play Sand, about $3 for 50 lbs. Actual amount used probably would equate to a few cents
Filter: DIY from Tic Tac container (about $1) with 100% polyester fill and small stones and a suction cup(already had on-hand) Plus small aerator ($9) for power.
Decor: approximately $30 for plants and ornaments
Other: Tetra 2-10 gallon heater $11, Hossen LED Light $16
Total: $110
Not sure if that's impressive or not when you consider the size of the tank, but I'm thinking if I used acrylic I might have saved a little bit of money. On another note, I think I may have been the first to make an air-powered filter from a Tic Tac box ;3