Craigs List...not all bad!
I keep finding great deals on the Flint Craigs List recently. Tonight I picked up a 5 level melamine 28gt rack w/heat and tubs that looks new for $100. I've also got a 20g long w/lid, a Zoomed Crested gecko enclosure/kit, and an ASF colony. I'm hesitant to buy animals, but I sure do like scavenging supplies and feeders!
Re: Craigs List...not all bad!
My experience is very similar - animals are hit or miss (mostly miss) but you can find screaming deals on the 4' long or bigger enclosures if you are willing to pick them up.