If you're just going to be playing at home, then take your bass and a cable (and maybe a pair of headphones) and hit a few pawn shops.
They always seem to have an abundance of small-medium sized (60-180W) combo amps that you can try out.
In my opinion, there are a few brands that I always stay away from in the combo-amp world. It's just my opinion, but Crate, Behringer, Gorilla, and anything unfamiliar is a sign for me to stay away. You may also want something portable - no need to get a 100lb. Peavey combo if one of the newer GK lightweight combos will fit the bill for you.
Pawn shopping is kind of risky because some folks try and sell there as soon as a problem arises. Some Pawn Shops have 30-day return policies on instruments and electronics. I'd ask about that, if you go this route.
Turn all the Gain/Volume to "0" before you power up and listen for any popping or funny noises when you hit the switch.
Try all the Inputs/Outputs and since you brought your own cable, you know its good - make sure that the Input Jack(s) are good on the amp. Give em a nudge and see if the amp barks at you.
I'd make sure that it had a headphone jack and Line Input (for an external source like an MP3 player, CD, etc.) so you can play privately if everyone is sleeping. Check and make sure it has an EQ section (Bass, Mid, Treb at a minimum).
I had an SWR 60W Combo a few years back, which was really a cool and it had all sorts of great features. Warm tone and easy to move around, but not the loudest amp in the world. Traynor/Yorkville make some great combo-amps with gobs of power and features.
Even if you don't buy one at a PS, at least you'll have an opportunity to play through a few used ones.
Good luck.