I have the Brother SE270D (Disney) Combo and the PE700II (embroidery only). I purchased both "refurbished" from Ken's Sewing Center in AL. Both have been great. I use the 700II the most because it has a a5x7 hoop. I can "combine" designs/wording and just re-hoop. The 7000II also has the USB port.
FYI, I just talk to Ken's to see what I could get with larger hoops and the price jumps a LOT!! We had a great "discussion" about that!! LOL
I also know that they have machines that have been put on lay-a-way and left w/o being paid off. Or customer returns for whatever reason which are thoroughly tested for any issues.
I have been very pleased with my refurbished machines and I just purchased a Janome SM (customer return) and a Brother ci6000 (refurbished) and they are both great. I can't afford any of the more expensive machines either!! I would love to have the new Dreamweaver but I'll just keep "dreaming"!!
BTW, Ken's has a website:
www.kenssewingcenter.com and also sells on eBay under the seller name: easyterms
Good luck in your search!