Go with questions to ask. If you are not interested in the 250+ decorative stitches then ask that the sales person first show you what you want and why you are buying the machine. For exampe if you want to machine quit then deal with that first. That is after a general overview of the working of the machine. Don't spend time on how buttonholes are made if you are not going to make buttonholes. If you are looking t machine quilt then I strongly suggest you look at the new machines (Janome Horizon, Elna etc) that has an 11 inch opening. They are sure easier to deal with a large quilt than the smaller ones.
They will cost around $2500-$3000. Sometme less.
Also, if it is convenient go to a quilt show that has sewing machine vendors and you will see many models. Check on the internet for Quilt Shows in your state or surrounding states. I don't know where you live in SC but there will be a large one in Atlanta in October. I have learned not to spend time being shown something I am not interested in. If I want to make buttonholes then I will go to the dealer at that time. Get my drift?