I know it is hard to figure out which machine is best for you to buy. I think you should write down all of the features you would love to have on the machine and figure out how much you can afford to spend. That will give you somewhere to begin from. If it is possible, go and sew on some that are for sale and see how they fit you. Remember, some machines are expensive and everything about them is expensive. The extra feet, bobbins, servicing, ect. Check all of that out too.
I do know the hancock fabric store sells some nice models if you have that store there in north carolina. Someone mentioned that they just got a nice one from them by buying on line. But, remember, the machine will need servicing every now and again, so try and buy one from a local dealer.