Homebrew PCBs

I'd appreciate recommendations from those with experience regarding 
desoldering stations. I need to acquire one for hobbyist use.  I need it 
to be ESD safe. It will be used mostly for SMT circuit boards, but 
occasionally for desoldering through hole components.

Desoldering stations seem to start in the $200 range and go up from 
there. What features and functionality should I look for in a 
desoldering station?

Thank you.

Steve