where to buy used machines

I've got an old singer that just isn't cutting it anymore. I've got some alignment problems that just aren't worth the money to fix. I'd love to get a new basic machine ($200-300 range) but honestly right now I can't even afford that. Does anyone have a good resource for used machines? I live in the Seattle area and have been checking craig's list often, but I haven't found anything yet that's not an antique or out of my price range.

Have you tried any of your  local sewing  machine dealers - even the ones who carry brands that you think are out of your price range? Most of the lines have entry level  machines with an entry level price. Or even better, dealers accept trade ins for new machines, then sell the refurbished trade-ins. It can be a great way to get a machines, often a better one than you could afford new. At the very least, it's worth a shot. Not to mention, you'd even get dealer support for  questions, repairs, etc.

I've found all my machines on Craigslist.  If you want a good deal and don't have much to spend, you have to be vigilant about daily searching.  I did some internet searches on dependable models and features which I wanted then went shopping.  It can take a couple weeks, but you will find a great one. 
You can also search your local thrift stores and yard sales, but finding a good machine is less common.

Ditto to the other posts.  Many dealers have trade-ins which are still in really good shape, people have just traded-up and their old machine would be checked out and re-sold for a good price.  I have bought 2 machines from ebay and had good results both times.  You must know what you want and ask questions of the seller and be patient to get a good deal.  It is amazing to see the difference in  prices from @ 2 week period to another, sometimes.  Some good deals are to be had.  If you are buying online, it is a good idea to buy from the owner--they know all of the details about the machine--age, # of hrs, any problems, etc. 

Did you know you can do a local search on eBay too? Search locally by putting in your zip code on the nearest distance prompt (drop down box just above the listings). That way you can pick it up without fear of damage by shipping. (:

Try a few local dealers. Most have a trade up policy, so they have used lower end machines on occasion. Most brands have a dealer locator on their websites. The ones I called whn I was shopping around were for the most part very helpful.

There are some good refurbished ones on Overstock.com for $100 or less!

I have to second the local dealer. They can be a great support system down the road.

I've bought two vintage machines on ebay. The first one was my Elna Grasshopper model #1 and it had a minor mishap in shipping. Luckily the seller refunded the cost of a replacement part. The second one (Singer 185J) was frozen but that was okay since I bought it to take to a sewing machine repair class. That machine had no problems in the shipping. Both of the sellers had great feedback on previous sewing machine sales. I wouldn't buy a sewing machine from someone who didn't understand how they must pack one for shipping.

The third vintage machine was purchased via the internet. But I opted to travel to the seller and see it for myself before he later shipped it to me. Once again this seller had nothing but rave reviews throughout the net.

I guess ultimately it's always caveat emptor!

One caveat on Overstock, I've noticed some refurbed machines are oddly labeled.

Most of the refurbished Kenmore machines are on Overstock listed as Janomes.  I know that technically they are made by the same manufacturer, but a Kenmore is still not really a Janome.  They seem to still be reasonably priced, but the refurbed "Janome" machines on Overstock are only about $50 cheaper than a new Kenmore in the store.

Of course, buying a new Kenmore means dealing with the horrific customer service at Sears, but that's just my opinion...

I agree with whoever said find a dealer. A new mahcien is an invetment - whether you are paying $300 or $3000. This is soemthing you will use and it will need cleaning and service and personally, I like the support. Meeting people who enjoy the same hobby I do, having the option to try new classes, having a go to place for supplies - makes a difference for me.

A few years ago, my mom order a compact brother from overstock.  It came tossed in a big box with some crumpled paper and it was broken.  We were able to return it, but it wasn't the easist return. 

If you find anyone at your loocal Sears that knows anything about sewing machines, go buy a lottery ticket. You can assume that the vast majority of them know nothing or close to it .

I also say - local dealer. I know the one I use up in NH is trying to sell a bunch of machines that are 'older' models. New versions are coming out from the companies and they are trying to sell off their 'older' inventory.  And, they also have a lot of trade-ins/used machines as well. So, look around at a local dealer, you  might be pleasantly surprised.  Beth

The refurbished Janome-made Kenmores have been repurchased by Janome from Sears, refurbished, and resold as Janome by an agreement with Sears (Kenmore).  It's legitimate. It's just been a way for Sears to deal with returned machines that need repair and for Janome to recoup some of their losses from having to buy the machines back.