purchasing a tank and supplies

Question
QUESTION: Hello, I am looking to purchase a used 55 gallon tank with wooden stand.  I
am a rookie but want to get started REALLY badly.  I am trying to save up for
a brand new tank with one picked out and spotted the same used tank on
ebay with local pick up in my area.  I am currently winning the bid with a tank
and stand in excellent condition for under $100.  The filter is an Aqua-Tech
30-60 Power Filter. Is this a good filter?  I am willing to buy higher quality
accessories like a filter to be successful with this specific tank. What other
questions should I ask?  It has a heater, lights and cleaning supplies.  The
attraction to a used tank at this price is based on my failure rate with a small
10 gallon tank.  I 've learned A LOT since then BUT I am a little concerned
about spending the money and then not being successful or loosing interest.
ANSWER: Hi Pam,
I am not really a great fan of Ebay when it comes to aquarium supplies, especially tanks.
Tanks are sealed with silicone. If they are not shipped properly you could wind up with a tank that leaks.
If you go ahead with the auction and win, just make sure you fill the tank and check it for several days before you go any further.
The filter for a 55 gallon tank should be rated for 100 gallons, so that filter is a bit small. You can start with it then add another one later but make sure it has all the parts to get started. Aqua-Tech is great.
Also, check the heater for several days also to make sure it doesn't over heat and that it is accurate.
When you are ready, write back to me and I will explain how to cycle your tank without fish so you won't have any unwanted fish loss.
Go for it!

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: The bid got to be about $129 and I backed out.  I thought that if I got it and
had to put some money into it, I might as well get the new one.  I am going to
get a 55 gallon with oak stand.  There is an about $250 aquarium kit that
includes high quality filter, heater, and the necessary supplies too numerous
to mention.  I am figuring I should get that rather than try to buy it
separately. What do you think?  I figure that would help with my success rate.  
I am going to go to Jacks Aquarium. I have been to every pet store in the area
and they seem to know a lot and have the best deal.  I can put it all in layway
so I am going to do it tomorrow!  Last night my son and I looked up some
fish and made a list of fish we liked.  Then I figure we can narrow it down
with an expert.  We've got time since I realize that adding fish slowing is
HIGHLY recommended once cycling is established.  We will get a hardy one or
two to tolerate the tank set up. It is a lot of fun and I don't even have a tank
yet! Thanks for the confirmation on the decision I made to back out.

Answer
Good job Pam!
I think you will be very happy starting fresh.
Let me know as you progress throught this. I am here to help.
If you are going to start with fish to cycle your tank, Lemon Tetras are pretty hardy but of course there is always a risk that they can die.
Maybe a catfish? A common Pleco? Better known as the "sucker fish".
You could always do a fishless cycle too. I can explain that later if you decide.
Keep in touch :-)