I don't think anyone can tell another person what brand of machine to buy, it would be like telling everyone to buy a Ford, but you like a GMC. I have a Brother, Baby Lock, Pfaff, Bernina, several Singer featherweight. Each one is different, what do I use the most??? Quilt piecing the featherweight, never been a pretty stitch as it only does straight stitches. For sewing clothes, I use the Pfaff as I like the built in walking foot. Home deco, I use the Bernina as it's a little heavier built. Brother & Baby Lock for embroidery, It's easier to get designs in the PES format.
I would question the dealer regarding a Bernina needing a lot of repairs as they hardly ever wear out. Wonder if they needed to sell a new machine and had a buyer for an older Bernina????