You have cleared all the jam out of your way for your unlikely wedding with Carol. Now, it is time for dowry consultations. First with your boys. Then with your elders. Your mother has not yet approved of Carol, but she is not the one who is marrying Carol. You can always deal with consequences later.
It is hard to estimate the correct dowry to pay for Carol. We mostly use the level of education to determine the dowry. It is assumed, if properly educated, she will be a good return on your investment, hence her clan will quote top dollar.