Try borrowing before buying.  Put the word out to loved ones and friends and chances are somebody out there has a spare machine with your name on it.  If the machine hasn’t been used in a while, take it to a sewing machine repair shop for a check-up.  As the owner of Cut & Sew Studio I have always gone to Thornton Company for all sewing machine purchases and repairs (from my very first machine many years ago!), but I also recommend checking out other options in the city including Gloria Horn Sewing Studio. The machines used at the studio are Baby Lock (Brand), both the Crafter’s Choice and Katherine models, and also Pfaff (brand), Ambition 1.0 (model), but there are lots of good brands out there I can help recommend to you. If you have never sewn before I suggest taking the Intro to Sewing class prior to making the big purchase.  Firstly you will find out if you enjoy sewing (chances are you will!) but secondly, you will be more informed as to what you want and need when you go to make your purchase.  If you are a student, please also feel free to contact the studio for specifics on machines and help in making your decision.