Yes, downloading the designs is very important. You may have to purchase a read/write box with memory card and those can run over $100. If you can afford it, try to find one with a USB cord to connect from your computer to the machine. I have a Brother which does 4x4 which was my first. Within 6 months, I was ready for a larger 5x7. Even now a 5x7 is getting smaller with all the new designs coming out in 7x12 and 8x8.
On the other hand, if your dealer would be willing to trade it in on an upgrade in about a year, that might not be a bad deal (depending on how designs are uploaded).
There....I probably thoroughly confused you!!