When you get to look at software, I recommend a TechNet Plus Direct subscription. MS in UK has a special offer for new subscribers until 18 March - GBP £188 + VAT. This is about the same as the renewal price. See http://technet.microsoft.com/en-gb/subscriptions/ms788692.aspx

This allows you to download any MS server and office software, but Visual Studio is not included. So for £188 you get Vista Ultimate, Office 2007 Ultimate, W2003 Enterprise, SQL Server 2005 Enterprise, etc, etc, for personal use only. You can even upgrade existing Vista boxes to XP! IMHO one of the best deals going.