intel/powerpc, software

I just had a few questions, I really want to make the switch to a mac but I am a dirt poor student. A friend offered to sell me a powerbook for like 800 but with the transition of macs to intel will that cause a problem for future software releases? I'm not to knowledgeable about porting software but I would imagine all new development would be geared that way, or am I wrong and that doesnt even matter? should I hold out and save up for a intel mac?

I don't think you'll have any problems at all. You should be just fine, not to mention they are releasing versions of most apps as Universal Binary.

You'll be fine for years

If he is willing to sell you a Powerbook for $800, they have refurbished Macbooks for $949... Just a thought if you could fork out the extra dough.