To add to what KRA posted, the Left Homing machines need a special straight stitch presser foot. If you try to use a regular one the needle will be ruined post haste.
There are two types of left homing machines and you've got to be careful how you work with them. Some will have no needle position lever, others do.
Some go to the left position when it's off the ZZ position, others have the L,M,R lever but are left homing on straight stitch only. My Aldens Magic ZZ is like that. I never knew it was left homing until I put the straight stitch needle plate in.
I don't have any trouble quilting with left homing machines but I don't really like them either.
Joe