Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. What would you be spending on a brand new one? In bad condition you shouldn't have to give an arm and a leg. IMHO they are pretty much all repairable - pay attention to see that all the parts are there. Some parts can be bought on line - that eats into how much you should give for the machine. How do you feel about working on the machine? There are places where you can not find them in any condition and with a high price when you do and then there are places you can find them in any condition and the price is all over the map. The other question is wear. Is it worn looking from neglect or worn looking from being used. Worn from neglect is harder to take care of than worn from being used and used. I find the machines that are worn from being used will be a really good machine when cleaned up. Then there is worn years ago but neglected for the recent 50 years or so. Those will clean up but will take some time. They will still be a good machine when you are done. If you search this board you will find a WEALTH of info on servicing any old Singer you find. I think I would rather see on that has been used and used than one that was cleaned by someone clumsy who didn't have a clue what they were doing. Do your home work and you will be fine.