Do look at a used machine. Check the area dealers or the local sew & vac. They have great models often come with a warenty. I would spend the $ on a good used machine that you can get serviced from where you purchased. The newer machines at the lower end of the price specturm have alot of plastic parts that do not hold up over time. There really are lots of really great used machines that get turned in when an owner wants to upgrade.
No matter what you choose ...test drive the machine. Bring fabric/batting that you would be using and take it for a "spin".
I still have a used machine bought for 50 dollars over 35 years ago .. it has all metal parts... some special stiches and just will not quit.