I contemplated the same thing for about a year. I was comfortable FMQ on a DSM and did enjoy quilting on the bernina Q20. Space was a consideration for me so I was also looking at the brother dreamquilter and frame but tried out a avante and felt it was smoother. I also decided to get the 10ft frame and set it up smaller until I can move it into a larger room in my house. I do have back and shoulder issues so I use a stool and quilt sitting down using the microhandles. I don't regret my decision and the transition has not been as huge a learning curve as I thought it would be. I do recommend taking your time. I went with my brand because I love my dealer and it is the brand he sells so I did not try others because dealer support is important to me. I have had my machine a couple months and haven't had any issues. It stitches smoothly. I think either way I would have still enjoyed a sit down but the basting was hard for me so thats why I chose the long arm over the sit down