I think that's the best place to start...making a list of what features you want. I love my knee lift, needle down, a nice bright light, and large harp space. I have a Bernina 820 and really like it. I originally wavered between Pfaff and Bernina. I got a Bernina because I loved one of the Bernina dealers here on my side of town. They have since closed up their business unfortunately. There is another dealer around but (in my opinion) not as friendly and less available than the other dealer and it's a long drive from my house. Oh, and I also have my big machine set into a cabinet that makes the machine bed flush with the cabinet. This is really nice for quilting. Happy quilting! I think a goid machine and good set-up makes quilting so much more enjoyable.