I would guess that the type of equipment would depend where your going to put it at. Bedroom, spare room, garage, backyard, etc. If you are a renter and live in a apartment, than you may have fewer options. Used equipment would be first choice and craigslist is a good idea. Keep going back if you don't find anything at first, always changing. Check the local Recycler, PennySaver, local add's, etc. Or run a add yourself for "equipment wanted" in those papers. Those companies that say they don't charge for shipping are going to add on that cost one way or another. Their in business to make a profit and any "free" shipping is not part of their profit margin. Check for hidden cost, extra tax or the actual market cost of what they sell.. Might also consider WalMart, Sam's Club, Costco or what ever type wharehouse stores are around you. Some good prices there.
A ideal piece of equipment would be a light power rack, shown on this site somewhere. Usually can set up a dip station, chinning bar, pulley devices, ab board. All power racks are not built the same, so try to be a little selective with what you need. Weither you get a power rack or not, with you budget, just buy equipment as you need it a little at a time rather than everything all at once. Your basic needs will be a BB, DB (those inter locking home stacks are pretty cool but can be expensive), bench with a safety rack and chinning bar.
If you have a PickUp and you find the equipment you need a couple of hundred miles away than drive on over and get it. Or even rent a one way trailer. Shipping cost can almost be as much as the equipment (new or uses) it's self. Good Luck.
