My suggestion is become a fixture in the local distributors shops. That is visit several times...view machines and test drive and ask questions, go home think it over, go back ask questions. Repeat as needed. Consider trade ins as options. I ended up buying an Ellisimo Gold II, when the Destiny came out for a great price. I also have owned a Bernina Virtuosa 153 QE. Bought it new 12 years ago and never a problem. Wherever you buy make sure they service their machines there!! Plus, you can never have too many machines a Singer featherweight is ideal for classes, retreats, travel. I would definitely have one of those either as my starter machine or for a spare.