If I were you, I'd save up my money and get either the Brother machine or the Janome. I started off with the 350e. I would not get a machine that doesn't have the needle threader or the usb. Those memory cards are just not worth it.
Contact your local dealers though. They do take in machines on trade all the time. If you let them know you are looking for one, I'm sure they'll call you to let you know.
The Brother will run you about $800. The Janome will probably be more - a few hundred more - keep in mind though that there is a big start up cost even after getting the actual machine. You'll need stabilizers and thread too.
You also have to change your needles every 4 or 5 hours of use to keep a good clean design. I buy my needles from Discount Embroidery Supply. They are fantastic and have great prices. You can buy a lot of 100 needles for almost what it costs to buy 10 at the stores.