that sewing machine dealer thought she saw you coming. i just purchased a viking 140c...if that is the machine you saw "pretty red details" and is computerized. I LOVE IT! it's a rebadged 855. and a darned good machine. my first brand new machine was 15 years ago-a viking 350-their entry level electronic machine and it is still a work horse.
now, IF you want embroidery..that's going to add to the cost. but she sounds like a jerk. you can find a really great machine for 1000-. (btw, my viking 140c was 1260 and i thought i was getting a good price..joann's had it at 1360-)
betsey