Lots of great advice here for you. I just might add that sometimes the dealers have special sales going on during the month of July. Here in AZ they have whats called "Christmas in July" and you can get some fantastic deals. Last year at this time I was also looking for a new machine. My current machine could not sew thru 6 lays of flannel, and I was stuck not being able to finish off a rag quilt. So the first thing I did was make a list of the things I wanted my new machine to do. From what was most important to what was nice if I got it, but not necessary. Then I started making the rounds to the dealers. Oh, and find a dealer you like, ones that are friendly and helpful. So originally I was thinking I wanted a Juki, from everything I read. I was only looking a new machines. Then I went to one retailers and I really liked the sales lady, she was so helpful, and as I was standing there waiting for her to set up a certain machine for me to try I spotted on the used shelf a Babylock Quest Plus. I had her pull out that machine, and come to find out, it was a floor model, and it had everything with it. I sat down and it sewed perfectly thru the 6 layers of flannel, and I loved this machine after sewing with it for a bit. So even though I thought I knew exactly what I wanted I ended up with something completely different. And I have had it almost a year now, and I still love it, I am so happy I was open to looking at different models and brands.
So be sure to check out and see if the retail sewing stores in your area might be having special sales next month. You can save alot of money that way. And good luck on your hunt for the perfect machine. We all have different ideas of what is perfect for us.