I would consider buying a used machine from a reputable dealer after you go check out brands and find something you like. Most times people will buy a machine and then upgrade when the newer ones come out. They are checked out and most times are like new but at a deeply discounted price. I personally don't buy brand new anything if I can help it. Let someone else take the depreciation hit. Having a dealer or LQS that can help you when you have problems or questions is really important. Don't be afraid to take some little project and just go sew for an hour or so. Most people just want to sell you a machine and won't care how much you check them out.