I just found a slightly used bernina 820, for $3000. That sounds like a good price, I think they are much more. Apparently it is 6 months old. Can anyone give me more info on this model. I think it has A large harp, duel feed, I think Bernina has a function for free motion,

How do you like this machine if you have one?
have you had any issues at all?
Is there anything I should know?

The last machine I bought has been nothing but a lot of money and problems, I don't want to make that mistake again. I have contacted the seller, so we will see, I think this would be a great machine but I haven't even been to a dealer to test drive, so am hesitant.

It isn't via the infamous scam ad on craigslist, is it?

That seems like a fantastic deal. As in, maybe too good. Although, maybe it's a demo.

If you "found" this machine on CL it's a scam. 820's don't sell for that price.

Be very careful. If it is via Craigslist don't even consider it. If it isn't, it is too good of a price to be true. The machine is excellent, but see how long is a few months. The first machines that came out in November 2009 and were distributed to dealers were samples and didn't have all the features. Also there were a few glitches that were worked out later. Be very careful. Is a good price, but still a lot of money.

I emailed them and have had no response, I emailed a bernina dealer and they won't give me a manufacturers list price over the internet. thought it sounded pretty good, but buyer will beware.

they are 7499 new when not on sale.they are on sale this month for 6299.way too much for me but I was dreaming so I called 2 dealers-both had the same price.

Thanks wolph, I was in the ballpark.

The Craigslist scam in my area was $1200 for an 820! The email response usually makes it pretty darn clear if it is a scam. On the ones I have seen recently, the seller has suddenly had to move across county for work and the new employer is providing a new computer - nope, the idiots can't even keep the scam straight, lol.

Close to half price may possibly be genuine, but be careful. In addition to my CV, I got a similar deal on a Sailrite LS-1.

Well, it must be not so clear to some folks because the scammers are still using the same ploy. So it must be working.
:roll: Very sad.

Five years ago, I bought my 440 Bernina for 2,800.

still no word from the sellers this morning

It sounds like a scam. Why wouldn't they answer your eMail if it was legit. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Sue

Move on. And be glad you've still got the $3K.

Do you mind sharing the link to the ad (here or via PM)? I'm curious.

OK, fatquarters did share with me the source of the ad.

And, I have to say, my normally distrustful, watchful, judging self ...wasn't totally put off by the ad. Surprising. It was a combination of the site/location/wording/pictures, etc.

If that ad was nearer to me, I would definitely have followed up on it. I actually would have traveled a couple of hours to check it out.

So that said, the original questions was what should fq should ask about it - if the seller ever calls her back.

As the closest I've ever been to one was at a show (where I drooled), I'll let others address specific 820 issues.

Here is a list of things that come to mind:

Looking at the pictures, I don't see a walking foot or 1/4" foot so you'd have to buy that on your own. That's around $200.

I'd want to know where the machine was bought, last time it was serviced, and ALL the paperwork from the original purchase (if they still had, and they should).

And, if you don't already know, call your local Bernina dealer to see what you'd be covered for if you brought in a machine you didn't buy from them. I just say that because I've been standing in a store when the owner told some people certain things wouldn't be covered if they bought the machine elsewhere. You need to understand what's included the warranty BEFORE you buy it. Somethings are lifetime covered by BERNINA, but that could be just the parts and you'd have to pay the labor.

Don't go alone. Since it's a local pickup and I'm sure you'll be paying cash (or via money order), you'll really have no recourse if something goes wrong. So you need to be sure and safe.

Bring some thread and fabric scraps so you can play - just in case they have none. You never know.

I hope he calls you back so you can get to the next step.
I'll be looking forward to how this pans out.

Update, In my first message yesterday I asked reason for selling, name of the dealer where purchased so I could check for future service, and If and how much warranty is remaining.

Today on my lunch break, I sent a second message, asking for a reply.

Still no word. BTW, it will be a 4 hr drive to check it out, so I won't go unless I am pretty sure. Thanks for the heads up on the walking foot, Are they that much for these machines?? Aren't they built in like the duel feed on the phaff??

NO WARRANTY for used machines period. Warranties do not transfer with used machines. It has the dual feed, but a walking foot is needed for quilting 3 layers on the 820 which is $150.

Wow, I hope you hear from them!