Used Vaio TX or TZ series??

Hello,

I have been shopping for a used TX or TZ series for weeks. I'm not sure which one is better for my purposes or what is a fair price to pay for one of these used models. I currently have the black macbook which I bought brand new this past February. It's a great computer that allows me to use both mac and windows. The weight of the computer combined with the other things, I carry in my bag is killing me. I don't work in jeans so a backpack is out.
I live in New York City and I am a real estate agent. I have read the various reviews on ultra portables and it would appear that the vaio tx/tz are the best. I don't intend to give up my macbook, but I can't afford to to purchase another brand new laptop either.
I need an ultra portable computer that will allow me to carry my laptop with me all day. I'm either on a subway or walking . Not to mention my personal favorite as a real estate agent "The Five Floor Walk-Up". I use the laptop to access my company's database on our remote server, load digital pictures to be posted on my company's website, and simple photo shop retouching. For the most part I would use picture, text, and pdf files.
I noticed that vaios tend to be set up for sprint or cingular edge plans. I have verizon. Does that mean that I wouldn't be able to use the verizon wireless data plans for a vaio laptop?
Here is what draws me to the vaio. The tx or tz weight of 2.7 pounds brings it close to half the weight of my macbook. The long battery life means that I don't have to bring the ac adapter along. I anticipate a minimum of 30% drop of weight that I would have to drag around.
Sorry, I'm a long winded. I think I have given anyone who chooses to reply to this post enough information. I need to know which series and/or model would be best for my purposes and how much should I expect to pay?
I have seen some surprising prices. There are vaio tx and tz priced at $1200 to $1500 that are 2 years and older. Considering that for an additional $ 300 to $500 it's possible to purchase a factory refurbished model with limited warranty and in some cases brand new from on-line stores with full warranty. I also noticed this forum has a buy/sell/trade section. If I were to purchase from the forum, how does one protect themselves from purchasing a used computer that is less then advertised?


Thank You, Stef

 

Make sure you pay with a credit card or bank account. Each allow to to file a charge back if you're not happy with the item. However, I do recommend using a credit card over a bank account just because the refund process is easier. Ask for plenty of photos, and get the sellers contact information including both a mobile and home number. Actually speak to them and verify the numbers are working before sending payment. Also request a tracking number upon shipment.

 

Thank you for the transaction advice.

 

In case you haven't seen this, Amazon has the current (brand new) TZ1XX on sale in preparation for the TZ2XX series.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TRKUWW/ref=noref?ie=UTF8&s=pc

Sony has Sprint or Cingular built-in so it doesn't take up an express card slot or a USB port for WWAN and increases the portability, but there is nothing stopping you from sticking a Verizon card in the card slot to get to your network.

I think both TX or TZ will serve you well. Not sure about the used price, though. I personally would grab one of the TZ on sale at Amazon if I am in your shoes. Take out any guess work on the price and previous usage/abuse.