Some of you may know that I'm a part time computer technician. I consider myself part time because I've got a day job and primarily repair computers during nights and weekends.One of my customers recently asked me for some computer shopping advice. She told me that (unfortunately) her desktop computer is about 8 years old and that she wants to buy herself a new one. Her major issue is a limited budget: she can only spend $150 to $200 to spend on a new machine. She asked me if it's possible to buy a new desktop for that price.Is it possible to buy a brand new desktop for only $200? Yes. Yes if you're OK with buying an "almost new" system.TigerDirect is an excellent place to buy these almost new machines. While their new Desktop PC's cost anywhere from $359 to well over $1,000 you can get yourself an excellent Recertified Desktop for anywhere from $99 on up.What does TigerDirect mean by the term Recertificed Desktop? In most cases Recertified just means that the machine is just "Off-Lease." Essentially the system has been leased to a business customer for 2-3 years, the computer was turned back in, inspected by a computer technician, and turned around for sale as "Off-Lease." Since these computers are only 2-3 years old it's pretty rare that they'll be any issues a computer technician will need to repair. These desktops are almost brand spanking new!TigerDirect explains that they "only purchase and sell the highest grade off-lease products. Occassionlly some machines will show signs of use, including minor scratches, slight wear on keyboards, etc." TigerDirect is only buying and reselling top quality systems.Purchasing off lease computers can typically save you about $200 to $300. Click here to see all of TigerDirect's Recertified Desktops. I'll be highlighting particular recertificed models later this week. Read the rest of this entry »