I don't know about machines in your price range but I can give you some general suggestions:
Make a list of your MUST HAVE features and then start looking at what's out there.
When you find a machine you might like, go test drive at a local dealer and the read the user reviews. I go to patternreview.com to see what is said on there. (You have to sign up to get older reviews but it's free and they do not bombard you with emails).
I had a lower end Brother and was perfectly happy with it. My GF still uses it and loves it.
Janome users are generally VERY loyal to that brand. I am a Baby Lock girl now and love that brand.
One review I read gave the sewing machine 0 stars because it didn't fit in her sewing cabinet. That one made me laugh.