Designer 1 machines aare a pricier odel, and well known for being a very very good machine. $1200 doesn't sound bad to me. I have 2 Vikings and wouldn't want any other company's machines.
I would ask that the machine be totally cleaned and adjusted, and get a warranty of at least 90 days on it. They shouldn't have a problem with doing this for you.
If you can, so if they offer lessons on this machine for new users -- FREE lessons.
Good luck
Julie