An old question asked in a somewhat different way

I read the “what machine should I buy” discussions with eagerness but realistically, the only way I am going to be able to buy an upgraded sewing machine or maybe someday a long arm setup is if I come across a great deal at an estate sale or something. Which means I am not that likely to find a specific brand and model.

So instead, what are features I should look for? Even minor features that you notice and love? Functionality you would definitely pay extra for? Other than a deeper throat and the idea that stitch regulation would probably really help my attempts at FMQ, I am unsure what a new machine would offer for me. Educate me?