try hancock fabrics. i was in same boat when i started last year. janome 8077 had needle up down, the blanket stitch for applique and a bunch of others. I still use it a lot even though i just bought a 1600 P-QC. Runs about 250 on sale if I remember right. They even still carry it. saw it in the mailing last week or this week.
Only bad thing is it isnt from a janome dealer. BUT you could try a dealer and ask about used machines and trade ins too! sometimes they even have a little layaway plan.