Desktop PC: -- everything should be upgradeable or replaceable -- especially storage and ram and graphics card, ideally MB/CPU and potentially power supply Laptop: memory upgradable at a minimum. Ideally, internal storage should be upgradable or replaceable. Anything else is a bonus +1 for lots of interface slots (USB/thunderbolt/etc.)

Unfortunately I have very few contacts outside of my area, which is primarily Rochester NY. I also work some in Buffalo, Syracuse, and some other smaller local cities.

With all the (previous) growth in the RTP area, there has got to be a few good recruiters down there.

A quick google search found me http://www.rtp.org/local/jobs/joblinks.html

There is also a link to local clubs and organizations. You should be able to find some contacts in there that will recommend a good recruiter. (Again, back to networking...)

I'll second the private recruiter bit. Eric Derby @ Software Scout did a great job finding me my current job (of 7 years). During a brief 'leave of absence, due to lay off', he worked hard to find me a new job. The market in Rochester, NY was lousy however, and I lucked out as my company hired me back on the day after my serverance package ran out.
I would highly recommend going with someone like this. He took the time to get to know my skills, strengths and weaknesses, then continued to keep that data up to date, even though he knew I was happy where I was working. I tried several other sources to find a job while laid off, but all the big agencies would get me to come in for an interview with them, then never contact me again...