Help choosing a serger (3 choices Viking or Babylocks?)

I am looking at buying my first serger machine.  I think I have narrowed it down to 3 choices.  I am finding the search quite overwhelming and the reviews on my choices quite varied.  I could use a little advice here.

Here are my three that I have narrowed it down to:

1.) Viking s25 (It seems to have it all,computerize screen, 25 stitches, including cover stitch[which I had never heard of until last week ], and it has large work table).  Cost, $1299.  Never have used this brand, don't know much about the reputation.  The dealer is located in the middle of Jo-Ann's, don't know much about the service there.

2.) Babylock Eclipse DX (It's a Babylock, need I say more...I have the Ellure and like the brand and reputation.  But this seems to be their "entry" model) Cost $1199. From experience I like my Babylock, but I had a repair done and know that it can get pricey fast.  The dealer is a small store and has been in business forever, offers classes, a personal atmosphere.

3) Babylock Imagine. (I think this was a step up from the Eclipse.  I found it on Craigslist.  It is a used model, only 6 months old.  I have read some reviews that others have had "lemons' in this model.  I don't know if that is the reason seller is selling it? )  Cost about $800.  I worry about buying used, but seems like a good deal.  Is this the better model from the Eclipse?

I think that I am leaning towards the Viking, since I can get more for about the same cost as the Babylocks.  Also, I should mention that I am looking at furthering my sewing skills from a hobby/novice to getting some training at a tech school to learn alterations and grow from there.

Any advice would be great.  I am anxious to get started! Thanks!

I think the 3rd option requires more investigating. I would try to contact the seller and ask some questions. Ask if you can test it out and why they are selling it.
Babylock is a reliable brand and even if you have to put in some $ for repairs, you would have a higher-end machine that would grow with your sewing skills. From my experience, I haven't heard a single BL Imagine owner that regrets their purchase.
Viking also has a great reputation. The best test is one you do yourself. If you can, sit and test out each of these machines. After testing each one, I'm sure you will have a favorite. And since each one of these are great machines, the one you like the best will be a great choice!

Thank you for the response. 

I ended up going with my gut on this one.  I went with the Viking. I have had it only a day now.  I am liking it so far.  I have just been practicing with it, but plan to make my first official project tonight!

I plan on using it for awhile and then post a review on the machine. 

I think those three options are great. Both BabyLock and Viking have the good reputation. But if i'm be you,  mmm.. i think would choose the BabyLock Imagine. I'm curious with its exclusive BabyLock Jet Air Threading 
http://www.sew-machines.com/2011/07/26/baby-lock-sewing-machine/