The 215 is now a pretty basic Bernina. I have a 15-year-old 140 and a 230. Both good machines. Your walking foot will cost you more than $100 but is necessary. Check with a Bernina dealer to see if you can get the BSR as I don't believe it is available on the 215. Also check the space from needle to the right side of the machine). This is the space you will have to cram your project in when you start free motion. The 215 doesn't give you a lot of room (about 8" or less). I keep my 140 for FMQ because it has more space (9+") and that extra inch means a lot when you're working on a full-size quilt or larger. I have never had the BSR but I've managed to get my stitches relatively even by practicing. Bernina dealers are usually very good about arranging classes to get you started. If the used machine is in good condition I would go for it. My local dealer just sold a used 140 for $500. My 140 is sewing perfectly well and it gets the majority of tough use. Before that I had a Bernina 800 (the old metal one) for 27 years and never had a problem with it and I sewed constantly. The ones made in Switzerland are great machines.