If you're looking to "get your money's worth", you'll probably have to buy a used machine (nothing wrong with that---I did) and quilt for others. but, understand when you quilt for others you have much less time to make quilts of your own, and it is a job. Since money is really not the issue, and you don't want to quilt for others, don't. Do a lot of research first (I can't get this off of BOLD, sorry, ----How do I get back to "NORMAL"?), test drive every machine you can get your hands on, get recommendations from other longarmers, and get yourself a machine. We only live once. Can't "take it with you". Sounds like you won't regret the purchase. But if you do, you can always sell it. Go, girl!