If you don't need a whole lot of fancy, buy the best reviewed used machine that you can find. I could be wrong, but it seems like a good quality reliable machine is way out of my price range now. I have an older Elna and a Pfaff 7550. I don't do half as much sewing as I'd like to, but these two machines have everything I'll ever need and are very reliable. Good luck! Bet there are some good deals out there at this time of year. If you or a friend is a Costco member they have a very handsome Brother at what looks like a good price. Good luck!