Welcome tot the board from MN. I see that you are from Upstate NY. Bailley's is a great choice for starting a longarm. Chuck makes them 13, 15, and 17" He is located in Leceister NY. I was there just last month while I was on vacation. You can try one out at his shop. Here is a link to his website
http://www.baileyssewingcenter.com/homequilter.html
Hope that helps
another Nancy