If you are comfortable with Dell, look at the Dell outlet link on their site. They keep a number of refurbed, “scratch and dent”, and discontinued models there that can be very good deals.
Get on their mailing list. They routinely send out discount codes for the outlet that are for 15% and 20% off machines. I recently purchased a refurbed desktop cpu (for use as a media center pc) that new would have been a little over $400. With the 20% discount code it can in just under $200. Considering they also have free shipping it was a good deal.
Personally, I like refurbed electronics, but I can understand people that shy away from them.
I just bought 2 Dell 1545’s from their outlet store. With a 20% off coupon, I got them both for $788 and free shipping. Ordered on Monday, they were at my door Wednesday morning.
Bumped them both to Win7 Home Premium 64.. Nice machines for the money..