If you buy a used machine be sure that it works very good. If you get one that is difficult to run or the stitches do not look good, you will not be happy with your work. It is best to go to a local dealer and get the bottom of the line to start with. The Viking Machines hold their value. For the first year you can trade up and get the same as you paid for it on a new machine. Also the Viking never needs to be oiled and has a drop in bobbin that is so much easier to see,