We have an above ground pool that has been unused for 3 years. It is
not in good shape. We drained out all of the water except for about 3
inches. We had the pool guy come look at it to give an estimate to
clean it up and get it back in shape. Before he came he estimated
$45-50 (which I thought was low). He came and said for us to first
put water back in the pool. Now he wants to charge us $200 to pump
out that water! Does this make sense?

Not much to it really. Drain it, clean it out, scrub the liner best
you can and fill it back up. Make sure your pump still works and
clean out your filter.

The pool store can check your water for you and sell you whatever
chemicals you need to get the chemistry right again.

Steve