SpeedEuphoria
Aquarium Advice Addict
as for the light kit so far no one around here has any they all have to be special ordered so any good articles or tips on diy lighting.
Most every thing in this hobby is cheaper online, except for the tank/stand(due to shipping), If you are ok with purchasing things online then you have many of options. Like today I went to my LFS and a 150w Stealth heater is $47+tax, its $15 online + $10 shippping, the shipping seems to be a flat rate so if you buy more its a better deal and there is no sales tax(at least for my state).
As far as DIY lighting options you can look up ODNO(overdriven normal output), basically you buy a ballast that is made to control more then 1 bulb and hook it up and it puts more watts into the bulb, although it is not very efficient as 2x power input is not 2x output(due to heat and other losses).
You can also basically mount another or a couple of the same type bulbs in your current hood(you could also ODNO this). You need a ballast and mounting provisions.
Or you can rewire the hood to use screw in bulbs, then get a couple compact fluorescent bulbs.
Or you can get a "retrofit" kit online
Or get a shoplight from the hardware store(also can ODNO)
Most of these options require you to wire/rewire things.
There are many options so its best to read alot, then make a plan, read more specifically, revise your plan, then make it happen.