Becky,
Since you live in my neck of the woods I'll share with you the deal I just got last month. I bought a used Janome Horizon for $1500 from Montavilla at Fabric Depot. You might check them out. It came with 3 years of free maintenance, parts and cleaning. Mine came from a previous owner but I heard them say that they had some classroom models available. If they don't have something in your price range make sure you ask them call for used models (if that's what your looking for) at their other stores. I can't give you my true opinion of my Janome yet because I haven't used it enough. So far I have enjoyed using it. I also own a Pfaff classic style and really like it and love the IDT. I just wanted something that I could do a little more with.
Micha