Hi there! I learned the HARD WAY about Bengal kittens. (See my thread on "If the mother is a Serengeti is it a Bengal?" I did not do enough research and was told by the breeder they were bengal kittens. I did not see the mother on the website, I had to ask her TWICE to see pics of the mom and only then did she disclose information about the mother, who happened to be a Serengeti. My kitten was also cheap ($500 with a non-refundable downpayment.) I did get my money back due to false advertisement and false claims. DO YOUR RESEARCH. Be sure and get information about both parents, make sure they are BOTH pure bred bengals, ask about their shows, breedings and such, view photos of previous litters and most importantly ASK FOR REFERENCES! I did not do this either and wish I would have. Any good breeder will gladly give references (more than 1 as well!) Also look out for website who claim to have kittens "all the time" as some do not let their queens "rest" in between litters. You may have to be patient and wait for that kitten once you found your breeder. Don't be too impatient, just wait and the kitten will be worth it!
I have found an adorable, very flashy golden rosetted male bengal who will be joining our family in late May. I got TONS of info, did a LOT of research and I am VERY happy with my purchase. And yes, this kitty cost WAY more than $500, but remember the old saying, "You get what you pay for."
Try going to The International Bengal Cat Society website and check for breeders there. I looked for some in your area and here is what I came up with:
http://www.bengalcat.com/breederlisting ... x?region=4
Good luck and keep us updated!