I don't know why everyone thinks that buying at a show is a good way to go. I bought my serger from a huge show and frankly, the price was not all that great. Lesson learned. I should have bought local.
i love my Janomes and I have never had any issues with any of them. Ever. Regular maintenance ....that is all. I don't do trade-ins. Yes, of course the dealer is going to sell the trade-ins to recoup the $$. What do we expect them to do with them?
I would not aggravate myself trying to shop machines via amazon. My time is worth more than me repacking and shipping machines back. Do that too many times with Amazon and one might lose shopping privileges.
Shop, negotiate a cash deal with no trade. Good luck.
Sandy