They range from $1000-$1700 here in my area also. Insane! It pays to shop around! Also look at the Elna 7300 bc it is the same machine and you might find a good deal on that one.

I have the Elna 7300. Bought it a year ago- floor model- from a dealer and cost me $1099. Free classes, tune-ups for two years. Love it. Does everything!

Thanks everyone for chiming in, this gives me a really good idea of what to plan for. I'm not going to be getting one immediately, but I can save up for one, that's for sure. The only problem if I get one will be that I will need to finish part of my basement to make into a sewing room. There's no room on my dining room table for two machines. Guess I'd better save all my pennies!