i love my janome - 15 yrs and counting. when i got sick i didn't sew for almost three years, and believe or not, i couldn't get it together again. i couldn't even find my stuff, including the manual. i wrote to the company explaining what happened and they sent me everything that i was missing,
no charge. they have my loyalty for life. i have the memory craft 8000. it embroiders with cards and has a good range of stitch widths and lengths, needle up/down, spool up or sideways, some other good features for the age. when i got it, it was their top of the line. my daughter has two steps up from the bottom and loves it, too.
depending on what you buy, the seller may or may not offer monthly payment plans. as i understand that, it's his option.
i know that there's a janome distribution center in new jersey although it may not be factory. where do you live? can you buy at a show? they're usually less expensive. also look on ebay. make sure it's new and has the warranty. figure in the shipping.
good luck.