our University and University hospital have a surplus store and sell products not used anymore. I bought a HOM huge desk for 20 dollars and 4 office chairs, file cabinet and several other items, for almost nothing. Look around and ask people you know, they may have something also. Good luck.

Yes, I sometimes feel I'm taken advantage of, usually don't let them. They look at how you're dressed, your jewelry and decide to gouge you!

I didn't read all the responses, but .....
Why don't you go to an unfinished furniture store (or thrift store, etc), and buy a desk that you can paint yourself, using the ideas from the first desk?