When I retired as a quilt store manager, I had about ten quilt tops finished and about 15 as started projects. Most of them were quilts I had made as store samples and as classes so when I thought about how much it would cost me to have all of these quilted I started looking for a (cheap) longarm quilter. Saw one on Craigslist for $1,000 so i bought. After 2yrs of using it I wanted something more modern.
Sold that first one also on Craigslist for $900.00 so I got my moneys worth out of it because between my daughter and I we quilted about 20 baby quilts and about 5 of my queen size quilt tops.
Again I went to Craigslist and found a HQ16 for $5000. So I bought. I have quilted for myself and also for some friends for $ and they have recommended me to their friends.. I give myself a one month time of return so I am not rushed.
All this to say that I love my "Harriet". only one problem she only loves Aurifil Thread.