The best thing I did was to go to a sewing show and try each of the machines I was considering. And don't be someone who tries it for 10 seconds and says they are done. I was at each booth for at least an hour. I listened to the sales pitch and then I put my hands on the machine and tried it. I also looked at what each booth had on the floor to stand on. I then found two quilt shops that rent time on the machine. I paid for the class to be able to learn to use the machine and then I went and used them for a couple of hours.
I do have to say I prefer a stand up machine because you don't have to pin your tops.
Super excited for you to get one, think of the creativity you will have.