I Have a Question

More importantly is what are you going to use it for?
That might be more of a determining factor.
They say most folk only ever use around 10% of your computers brain power!
So if all you want it for is document storage and the odd game of Patience. Don't pay ott for something you don't need!

I like Dell I used to like HP but the last couple HP's I got overheated and the mother boards failed. This one is a Dell and I have had no problems with it.

Don't buy a laptop based on a brand name. By one based on the specs you need to accomplish your tasks.

Refurbished isn't such a bad word. It simply means that the device is certified to run by the specification of the manufacturer. "Like New". They often have a limited warranty (30 to 90 days) which can be a good short term safety net. I would make sure you get it through a reputable store in any case.

I like to write (not any good at it). Not much for the game scene. I just need a good jack-of-all-trades system. I saw a pretty high powered lenovo, but the made on China tag, puts me off a bit. Refurbished laptops have a nice price range yet, the word 'refurbished' makes me Leary.

Well you can always buy a cheap second hand one.
Just remember to back up anything you create.
May also be an idea to back up on another drive. Either disc or stick.
At least that way it's all up to date and separate from the C drive.