you need an impact or some really creative thinking to get the top nut off of the strut tower. after that it should be all downhill. and you should throw some springs in while your at it.
I was able to do mine but I would say it was "difficullt" because I put in new springs. I had access to air tools which made it a lot easier. But it also took a lot of time to figure out what I needed to do. I would agree that $500 seems high for just the struts. A shop should have all the tools plus have done it a few times (which makes the job go faster). I'm not sure about the "need" for an alignment. I'd probably do it just in case it hasn't been done in a long time anyway. I think its time to get a few more quotes for installation____________the bottom line.
I got a tokico lowering kit with illuminas for $550 on ebay its worth checking out. I got the whole thing done in an evening with out air tools and a couple of busted knuckles. car rides fantastic now, it doesn't look like it has a lift kit on it.
IT is pretty easy. Like someone else on here said, the nut on top of the strut is the hardest part. I drove to a garage and they used an impact wrench to get them loose. I then slowly drove home.
The rest, piece of cake.
I am not sure if you need alignment when you only change struts. I think you do.
Hey you will need to get an alignment done after replacing struts, unless you can get everything exactly where it was,which is usually impossible. It can throw your caster and camber off. I would be safe and get one to double check after your done. just a thought