I would go to a reputable dealer...explore the different machines and decide what brand you like the best. I happen to prefer Viking machines. Most dealers will have trade-in machines that you can purchase at much less than a new machine. Just because they have been traded in does not necessarily mean there is something wrong....many ladies are always trading up to the newest, top-of-the-line machine. Both of my machines are used...and they are great machines. I bought them at the LQS I go to most often.