As long as the person has had it cleaned and serviced I would not hesitate to buy a used Bernina. You also might want to check with your Bernina dealer and ask them about it. You are talking to a Bernina lover. My machine is 23 years old and still purring like a kitten. I keep thinking I should update but my Bernina dealer says if I do, don't get rid of my machine (its one of the old ones made of metal, not plastic). Even though I sew everyday, I don't feel the need to get a new one. I do have a little Janome Gem which I take to workshops because it is so much lighter. But, honestly, I love my Bernina. Good luck and don't settle for less than a Bernina. You won't be sorry.