I think we are given those feelings of unease to protect us. I believe they are God-given. If you are getting red flags, then don't go ahead. When you do try a machine I would bring my own thread, fabric etc. Some longarms are very temperamental and you need to know that. I know this because I have one! You might want to call longarm dealers in your area because they might be aware of a customer who is looking at upgrading but need to sell their longarm. The dealer could hook you up and also probably has info on that particular machine.