Is there a place where you could rent a LA? That way you could quilt your quilt your way as well as see if you really want to purchase one or if you even like to LA. It is a big investment in money as well as space, so I understand your question.
I rented for several years learning on a Nolting (no stitch regulator) and then going to a Gammill (no stitch regulator) [the shop owners switched]. This worked well since I had no room at the time.
We have since moved and after trying out several different machines at shows and dealers, I have purchased an Innova with Lightening Stitch. I can't wait to get it, because I have several tops waiting to be done and I want to do them myself.
I love the entire process of both piecing and LA quilting, but it is all a personal choice of doing it yourself or shipping it out.