My first suggestion, find a reputable dealer. Take a class, talk to the other customers. The second, try all the machines that have what you want before purchasing. I have the Jem Platnum, MC1001 and the Horizon. The only problem I had was with my Horizon and I took it in, said they fixed it. I didn't see any change and took it back, again they said they fixed it. I was told I could be using the wrong needle or thread. Needless to say I wasn't happy. I opened the machine at the store and it was doing the same thing with the correct needle and thread. They gave me the store model and I was okay with that, but then the computer went out. Took it in for repairs and had the same problem. I called the dealer, she thought I should get an Industrial Machine if I was going to sew through Jean fabric for purses. I emailed the owner of the company and had a new machine delivered to my home, still in the box the same day. After all of that I love my Horizon, it sews beautifully.
Good Luck,
Pam