Some community wireless / WDS feasibility questions

[Fred Weston]

So, the wireless bug's been getting me again as of late.  I've been
reading up on WDS and looking at cheapish used hardware on eBay trying
to figure out what it would cost to set up a small community network.
Anybody have any input as to the feasibility of WDS for that type of
thing?  I realize WDS means lower overall bandwidth but that isn't
necessarily a huge problem for me.

>From what I've read, it looks like some manufacturers use WDS that
only works with the exact same model AP throughout the network... are
there any that are more standardized so hardware could be mixed?  Any
thoughts on specific models to look for (cost is the primary factor,
but then again I don't want to spend money on garbage)...?  I guess I
really just want to hear some stories from people with real world
experience with a similar scenario; does it work / not work, what
problems did you run into, etc.

Thanks