I think that before buying anywhere, on any auction site, or through a web store, you should visit the manufacture's web site. You need to check out the warranty period.  If the item has been refurbished, then you need to check and see, if the warranty applies to you; if you are the original purchasurer, then you should be all right.  If you are not the original purchasurer, then you will have problems, under a refurbished warranty, unless the original buyer did not fill out the warranty card, or do it over the internet. One manufacturer states if the refurbished product is not from an authorized reseller, then the warranty is void.  I am not sure I understand that, but maybe you need to ask before buying.  Again, buyer beware.  It is only your fault, for not doing your homework.  

I have not checked out the extended warranty part, and that is another thing that you might want to consider.  If the price for another year of service, is okay with you, then I say go with it.  I purchased an extended warranty for my over the range microwave, and am glad that I did.  I think for the most part, it just gives a piece of mind.   

I have been looking at two major brands of HDTV, and also the differences between a 26 inch, and a 32 inch.  One of the brands, has a price difference of about $150, between the two sizes.  I have also looked at the viewing distance that one recommends for buying either of the two.  I don't understand why there should be a big difference in a viewing distance.  I currently have a 27 inch, that I watch from about 8.5 feet.  I think it seems about right, and I wouldn't want it to be any further than that. I found one site, that stated for a 30 inch LCD tv, you should be no more than 6.5 feet away to view.  I thought that was a little ridiculous.  Here again, do your homework. 

If you have a satelite dish, then you need to go online or give the company a call, to see what you need to get hooked up.  If you are like me, and have had your dish, for quite some time, then you will need to purchase the HD receiver.  Or if you wait til after the first of the year, then I believe the government will provide you with a coupon or rebate on purchasing a converter box, if you don't want to go through the expense of transfering over to HD.  As of Febr. 2009, all tv broadcasts will be HD. 

After having visited the Vizio web site, according to a sales rep,  anyone that is not an Authorized Reseller, the WARRANTY IS VOID    

I hope that I have made you think twice before making your decision.   Good luck