Hi there - I'd really suggest buying a decent used machine - brand names like Pfaff, Elna, etc. The salesperson where I went - Suburban Sew & Vac in Lisle told me some women trade in their machines every year just to get the "new" model.
Linda Z's in Arlington Heights is a HUGE sewing store (sells new & used) and has a super knowledgeable staff. They'll let you "test" sew on their many floor models. I think a couple times of year, there are Sewing Expos that afterwards you can buy the machines used in classes for a really good discount.
When I first started sewing, I purchased a cheap ($199?) machine figuring all I was doing was sewing a straight line (I do/did quilting) so I certainly didn't need an expensive machine with lots of fancy buttons, etc. My experience was that I spent more time fiddling with the darn machine trying to get the tension set up correctly than I ever did sewing!
My next machine was a new Pfaff (about $799 - didn't know about used machines!) that was a dream, set the tension automatically - sewed smooth as a dream and a workhorse on all kinds of fabrics from sheers to upholstry (I now make leather throw pillows!). That machine is currently on loan to my stepmother who is quilting her heart out on it. I had a bug to do machine embroidery so I splurged on a used Brother sewing/embroidery that I now use when I can!
I'm rambling, but if you have any questions I can answer, let me know!
J.