I have a Janome MC 9700 which I picked up off Craig's List for $800, only two years old, hardly used. It's my "Dream Machine", just love it! But you don't need the embroidery part. Actually, I don't either, and don't use it, but it sews like such a dream, it's computerized, does everything I want, and for the money, it was more than everything I needed. I do not regret the purchase. Brand new, the same machine was priced at $2,499.00. And mine was as good as brand new. Look for that kind of a deal. They do exist. Even if it goes past your birthday, hold out for the best machine for you. You'll use it a lot, have it for a long time, and won't be sorry you held out for the right machine.
That's my humble opinion anyway. Good luck to you!