What software do you recommend for youtube videos on a budget?

I seek the advice here.

What would you advise I make flashy youtube videos with?

My first videos were made in windos movie maker and still look fresh!
This is my most viewed youtube video (done in wmv)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GUl7UqbL3uc
Olympic weightlifting Beasts! (Sorry, I can't embed)

If you have creativity, moderate quality won't detract you. I now use PowerDirector =-)