Have you tried going to local sewing machine stores? they take in machines in trade, and they have good deals. try them out, and figure out your budget. if you like one, negotiate price like you would if you are buying a car. if none fits your fancy, let the owner know what your price is, and what you are looking for, something will show up. or once you find one that you like, try ebay and craigslist to find the machine or to get ideas of used machine prices.