At my local Savers I found lots of bread machines that were still like new. Bought one for $12 that looked unused.
Found out that people use a recipe and it comes out hard so they get rid of the machine. Just like hand made bread it has to feel right to come out right.
I live in Phx AZ so you need to add more water than a recipe calls for, lots more. It needs to feel soft and wet to the touch.
I test the dough several times during mix cycle. Mine now comes out just like homemade.
I love the book Whole Grain Breads by Machine or Hand. Author Beatrice Ojakangas. I have to add alot more water than the recipes call for, not quite 1/4 cup more.
The family loves to get a loaf of my bread and it is so easy to make with a machine.