Something to think of, encrypt your hard drive with a utility like
TrueCrypt. It is mandatory for all laptops where we work at that leave our facility. It actually helps speed them up if you encrypt the entire volume - you do not need to reload your software, you can encrypt them while they are loaded.
If the drive is removed and placed in another system it appears like it does not have a partition on it (white noise) and they will format over top of it and use it. Works very well to protect your personal data.
To the OP; I would start calling pawn shops in the Tri-County area and send them the information for your laptop - also, start scanning E-Bay.
Good luck!