I just bought a StillShot 2 backdrop stand off eBay ($60) and a roll of Savage SuperWhite background paper, 53", from B&H ($35). I use four Nikon Speedlights on cheap light stands, with DIY umbrellas, grids from SaxonPC, and a DIY beauty dish. I use eBay Cactus 16-channel radio slaves (modified) to trigger the whole setup.
In case you haven't guessed, my primary concerns are low cost and small size/portability. Broken down, the entire setup fits easily into a storage chest (except the paper, which is a bit too long). In about 20 minutes I can turn my living room into a decent studio by myself and shoot pretty much anything I need to, from models to small items to furniture.
As far as backdrops and props go,  Idnic posted a thread a while back detailing how to make your own dyed muslin backdrops out of bed sheets. I have one of those - again, very cheap, and easy (and fun) to do. For props, I check out the dollar store and Target when I need things - also Salvation Army stores.
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