ktbb - I have never purchased off ebay and am sort of too chicken to try it; and as you pointed out, I am wondering how helpful my local dealer would be if I bring in a machine purchased elsewhere! So if I want one I will most likely buy it locally although I may point out the range in prices I am seeing to see if that motivates anyone. Now, can anyone tell me the overall length and width of this machine? I am wondering if it will fit in the cutout space of my sewing desk.