Originally Posted by
Prism99
I have a Voyager 17 on Hinterberg frame, but my dream machine for years has been an Innova. There is currently a used one for sale that is a four-hour drive away from me. Have been emailing the seller, who is moving and unable to take the setup with her. Here are the specs for her setup with the prices she quoted (which I assume were list prices in 2011, not necessarily what she actually paid):
22" head ($18,000) with lightning stitch ($3,995) and 12' aluminum frame ($10,995) purchased in 2011. Power feed advance ($1,750), crosshatch rule ($435), electric channel locks (875), industrial bobbin winder ($275), Towa gauge ($65). Miscellaneous threads and pantos. I have seen photo's of the setup and it looks very clean.
I do not see myself as ever doing quilting as a business; this is just for personal use. I am 70 years old and I see myself as remaining fit enough to stand at a frame for a couple of hours a day for the next 10 years. I realize that a 26" head is needed to add Auto Pilot. I really do not see myself ever wanting Auto Pilot (unless I suddenly become extremely rich, in which case I would replace the entire setup anyway!). Probably my biggest concern is regarding resale value of the 22" head down the road, if I need to sell.
Anyway, I am dithering because this is such a big chunk of money for us at this time in our lives. Aside from other comments, I would appreciate suggestions about fair value for a used setup like this. How much would YOU pay for a setup like this?
First of all, you have the pricing list wrong. Innovas are sold as package deals, especially now, so it would be probably been around $18,000 for the entire package including the lightning stitch, frame, power feed advance, crosshatch ruler, electric channel locks, and bobbin winder. What is the price she is asking for? I wouldn't offer more $13,000 for everything, including the thread, etc.
Here is an ad I found on Longarm University's website for comparison:
Machine: Innova 22, 12 foot table
Location: Kansas City, KS
Price: $10,499
This is a 2011, "low mileage" machine with a 22 inch throat, lightning stitch, micro handles, rear laser, many extras! For more information on this machine, check out the Innova website by Clicking Here Purchaser is responsible for take down, pickup, transportation, re-assembly, and all associated costs.
I own a 2011 Innova 26" (which is 4" longer) with a 12' table, Lightning stitch, bobbin winder, crosshatch ruler, horizontal thread spool holder, Open toe hopping foot and lightbar (no lights). I paid $16,910 and that include 3 days of class, delivery, and setup.
I just looked and the electronic channel lock and power advance prices has not changed, much if at all.
As far as your age and what you want to do, my Innova just for myself and quilting for QOV. I don't plan to add any computerized devices, so it works for me. I am only 5'2" and I am fine with it. When I bought mine new as my retirement present, my DH told me to buy the most machine I could handle. I like some blocks on point and the 26" gave me more throat space, but I almost went with a 22". I think you would enjoy it and I would be the resale would be decent. Also, Innovas are some of the most low maintenance machines available. You basically just oil the little ports in the bobbin case area. They are also easy to add to without buying a new machine. I have added the new micro handles, the ezlocks, and the hand crank on the top bar without any help, but DH.
I would still suggest that you take a ride to see it and try it out before buying to make sure you will be comfortable with it. It is a big deal.