Buying telescopes doesn't always have to be expensive. 90% of the telescopes I own have been bought second hand. You can find great second hand telescopes here in the UK and here in the US. However buying second hand can be a bit of a lottery whereas if you buy from a reputable dealer and you don't like what you've bought you can always return the item. Its also worth reminding your better half that you should be able to sell your scope for around 70% of what you bought it for - so don't throw away the packaging!