You've got alot of great ideas there. The best; I think, is to go to your dealers WITH a price to spend in mind. Always try out at least three machines, and the one you feel most comfortable with- go for it. Also keep in mind the number of extra you get with the machine-- that will always be an extra charge for you.
My machine I got was from the dealer. I purchased it as a floor model, so they knocked off a couple of $100. It's a Husqvarna Viking - Emerald 116. It has the basic straight stitches, along with the zig-zag stitches. The more I use it, the more I love it!! :-P