Oh 2 Doods, I don't really know what to tell you. It depends on what you like to do. I have a Bernina..and love it although..as I tell my DH..its kinda like a John Deere..they are great machines but you do pay for them and then when you buy the extras..wow..you pay for them again.
Here are my favorite options.....Knee bar to lift the pressure foot, push button start for the embroidery (vs. having to hold down the pedal with your foot), needle down is a MUST, along with being able to move the needle Left/Right, and my most favorite Bernina offering----LOTS OF FEET!