The REI Garage Sale section has some smoking' deals, if you're willing to take a chance on "no refunds-no returns." I found a $250 Thule Bedrider two bike rack for $115. Returned because "it didn't fit truck." There was absolutely noting wrong with it. YMMV...
You can write a check. But, unlike former Cincinnati Mayor, Jerry Springer (yes, THAT Jerry Springer) make sure it doesn't bounce. Unpaid hookers be vindictive biotches.