I paid less than $200 for each of my Singer machines. The best feature though is the drop in bobbin that you can see without removing any part of the machine! I wouldn't get a machine without it. The newest one I got even has many different stitches to use. Just remember, regardless of what machine you get, write down the first tension settings in your guide/user book and if you have any trouble, reset the machine to the way it came and start again. Be sure to use the correct bobbins and read the manual anytime you do anything to the machine. Keep it clean, not by blowing into the machine, but with a new clean paintbrush that can fit into the bobbin case and clean out the mini dust bunnies.
Treat your machine with respect and love it! You don't NEED fancy settings but ALWAYS get the drop in bobbin so you know if you have enough bobbin thread to complete a task.