Do *NOT* get a Bernette; you will be very disappointed.
You may be able to find an older model Bernina in your price range, and that could be a great purchase. Do you have sewing machine dealerships in your area? If so, find out what used machines they have on hand. Older Vikings and Pfaffs are also very good machines.
If you are not planning on quilting with the machine, a new Janome Jem can be a very nice machine in your price range. I do think the harp size is small for machine quilting, though. Check Amazon to get an idea of features and pricing, and also for user reviews.