Yes they are that cheap. My child wanted an iPhone, sent into shop to pick an alternative, to which child came back with always the most expensive options, which is a red line mark on my money line for children. Anyway I have a friend whose husband is a techi and he purchased a Samsung for her and it looked brilliant. So I bought one. No complaints from my child and it must be good because for the next birthday of another child that exact model was was requested.
Cremeegg I agree with you about keeping up with technology.
You've now mentioned specific reasons for needing the iPhone, so that would seem logical for you. Also as its for business purposes I presume you can write off the cost of it.
But as far as Im concerned - there's no real difference in between buying from Apple directly or an authorised Apple reseller. Just go ahead with whatever's more convenient for you. I personally just like buying directly for no particular reason