I want to buy my mom a CHI because she's always using mines. I have really curly hair and it work great with me!

I have to agree with you, Chi is a really good brand. My sister in laws have one and it works awesome. I really want one but cannot afford to pay $150 for one. I've been searching online and the cheapest place I have seen is on ebay. I had seen some sell for $59.99 with free shipping or if you want to bid on one, I've seen them start at .99 cents.
I've also heard that the newer Coniar Ions work well. My friend has one, she has really curly hair and it straightens really easily with it. She said she got it from target, it was a pinkish-purple looking one...but I searched online at http://www.Target.com and did not find one she was talking about. I'd probably just order the Chi and stick with that brand.
Goodluck and hope you find what you are looking for.