Welcome to the group. I have two Berninas, neither of which was below $400, but there are many good machines out there. Look at Bernina, Baby Lock, Brother, and Janome. Be sure to read the reviews to see what kind and how many problems others have with the machines. Amazon.com and Overstock.com sell new and "reconditioned" machines. It's a shame there are no dealers in your area, because there's nothing like going from machine to machine to machine and trying out all the bells and whistles.
Hope you find what you need in your price range! Happy hunting.