Since you don't have a lot of experience with machines I would suggest you buy from a store that will offer free Machine Mastery classes and have a service tech available on site. You said you don't have stores nearby, but this is a big purchase and you need to find a dealer who can help you. I've known lots of people over the years who had sewing machines they never used simply because they had no mastery classes or people to help them. Look for a used machine with a warrantee from a dealership. Buying online or from a box store means you will have no help and perhaps no recourse if there are problems. A " previously loved" machine of good quality will last you a long time and do whatever you need it to do. Don't shortchange yourself....you may grow in your interests and want to have the ability to learn machine embroidery, or appliqué, or felting, etc. some day. A used higher end machine will give you the capability to explore and grow.