Right now is not the time, but as things get back to normal keep an eye on craigslist. You can get a really good used generator for under $500. I picked up a 10HP 6500W Briggs & Stratton last year for only $400 ($1000 new). Other than that, as soon as a hurricane enters the GOM go fill up w/ gas and fill up any portable cans you have. Even if you dont end up needing it for your generator, you can always pour it your cars (no chance to waste $ on gas).