My suggestion is to try out as many as you can before purchasing. Different features are important to different quilters. Many quilt shows will have long arm vendors with machines setup for trying out and have special pricing/financing options available.

I purchased used through an individual who was trading up and am very happy with it so far - I have had it almost 2 years. I have a Tin Lizzie clone made by Husqvarna/Viking called a Mega Quilter 18 X 8. Many dealers take trade ins, so it might be good to put your name on a list if you find a brand that you like. These are all work horses of machines, so don't be put off by an older model.

There is a big learning curve with any long arm, so please make sure to give yourself time to play and practice and don't be too critical on your first attempts. Most important is to have fun! Put some music on to help relax your shoulders.