I always buy my desktops off craiglist. For usually around $150, I get a decent machine that suits all my need and usually a legal version of MS Office 2003. Good enough for what I do.
However, my netbook is brand new. Why? Because Futureshop (and no doubt other stores) offer up to $300 off laptops and netbooks if you sign a contract for an internet stick (about $40 a month).
For us work from home types, a internet stick is a must-have anyways, so it's a no brainer. Nothing like having urgent email to answer and you pick a coffee shop with the wifi down. Or you are stuck in a meeting at an office where there's no wireless because the IT guys are security-freaks.
Anyhow, if you have a crappy laptop and you're a road warrior, there's no excuse. If a cheap guy like me buys new, then so should you:
http://www.futureshop.ca/en-CA/category/computers/1.aspx
Update: Getting Prinergy messages accepted.. About Me Photoshop CS 4 is coming out for Windows only! Need Supplies? Check out Brother DR-520 Drum Unit (Brother DR520)
