What's the least amount of time i should take off for maternity leave?

Six weeks is usually the minimum. I am not sure what you feel like you need but I didn't spend anything like $1500. You don't need all the crap they tell you to buy. Talk with some experienced moms to see what you really need, and then get stuff at consignment stores or resale shops. There are lots of gently used baby items out there that you can find. If you are short of cash then you just need to be resourceful. Good luck.