DYSON!!! Especially if you have any pets. I bought one a few years ago and it put even my Electrolux to shame when it came to gettting up dirt and pet hair. Most come with a long (14 foot I think) hose that will reach all the way up the stairs and they all usually come with the mini turbine head which is perfect for doing stairs. It's a shame you need one right away becuase woot.com occassionally has refurbs on there for a killer price which is where I got mine.

Good luck with shopping.