It's no secret that Microsoft software can be an expensive purchase, especially if you're in need of both Windows and Office.

Two apartment buildings located in Redmond's Esterra Park development near Microsoft Corp. ( Nasdaq: MSFT) have sold for $285.9 million in a deal recorded Wednesday, according to King County records.

It's no secret that when it comes to buying Microsoft software, the absolutely best way to pay more than you have to is to buy it directly from Microsoft itself. But if you want to get the same ...