Unfortunately, the biggest computer component E-tailer newegg marked up the price...As you can see..
Newegg.com - EVGA 512-P3-N861-AR GeForce 9600GT 512MB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready SLI Supported Video Card - Desktop Graphics / Video Cards
Newegg.com - XFX PVT94PYDE4 GeForce 9600GT Extreme 512MB 256-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready SLI Supported Video Card - Desktop Graphics / Video Cards
....They were 149.99 a week or so ago...But you can pick up the EVGA model from tigerdirect for 150 still.
EVGA GeForce 9600 GT Video Card - 512MB GDDR3, PCI Express 2.0, SLI Ready, (Dual Link) Dual DVI, HDTV 512-P3-N861-AR at TigerDirect.com
In regards to the special programs I spoke of...EVGA would suit you the best with their 3 month step up programs. Basically, you have 3 months after you buy the card and register it on their website, if you want, you can trade in your card for something better to EVGA....You just have to pay the difference between the cards. This will allow you to upgrade to something better if you wish as you save up some more cash, or something new comes out. It MIGHT make it in time for Nvidia's new highends coming, but that is if they are not delayed...Might be favorable too you if you want to save up some more cash and step up to their new high ends..although expect to pay a pretty penny =P.