Great suggestion and a good machine. I love my Brother machines :)

Do you have a good facebook marketplace in your area? I have seen some pretty good deals on sewing machines but I'm in a heavily populated area and the FB marketplace in my area is pretty active.

I bought 2 of my FW at estate sales. I only paid $50 for the white one. It wasn't working, but all it needed was some oil and it worked like a charm. I also got a black one at another sale for $75. If you check estatesales.net you can find sales in your area and set up alerts so they send you an email when those things come up.

i had the older version several years ago as my travel machine. i was really surprised by how good it was. with a walking foot, i even managed to attach a binding and quilt a twin-size quilt. the only feature missing (for me) is a thread cutter (scissors button.)

the cpx100 also a good option.

i saw a [refurbished] Singer C7250 which does have a thread cutter, but it's more than $100 over your stated budget.