I grew up with Singers and Kenmores. I am now a firm believer in Janome (Basic with a few decorative stitches for when the grandkids come to visit; Janome Embroidery Machine which I love; Janome 6250 my everyday workhorse; and a recently purchased Janome 1600P DBX with the 10" throat plate for free motion quilting and speed sewing.
I'd check with the merchant that services your machine and ask him to be on the lookout for a good used machine. He can check it, test it and judge whether its a good buy for you.