Toshiba used to make a really nice 24" for not too much money, to boot. The Sony is nice but overpriced for a 24.
It is really tough to purchase a TV right now at a "modest" cost, due to HDTV. Remember that within you desired 5-10 year lifespan the FCC has ruled that analog TV broadcasts will all end, leaving you in all-HDTV format by (supposedly) 2009. With a square tube set, projecting widescreen HDTV broadcasts, you will see a mighty small iimage. Not too mention the adapter box necessary later and without DVI you won't get digital connections (OK, they still should use analog composite or component). So at least make sure it is a "monitor" with auxillary inputs or you'll be left high and dry after the switch.
1 component input would be really nice - either DVD or STB input. 2 is better but almost impossible to find in that size, therefore hopefully get a set with at least 2 aux inputs, mixed connections if necessary so that your DVD player can still be hooked up when you get the STB in the near future (if you want your STB to give best quality input to the TV).