I was in exactly the same conundrem (is that spelt right?) when looking for my first Lathe.
I was wanting shiney new as I thought it would give me backing etc.
the advise on here was great and I ended up with a lovely huge Hegner HDB200XL with all the add on and upgrades, for a price just above the new mid to high Records/Axminsters.
Now here is an offer as such
due to a massive lifestyle change ( in process of splitting with fiance and now having to comprehend a life without a shed) I MAY (I say may as a lot will be discussed worked on and big life choices) be selling this all in, along with some other tools potentially.
as you are in the research process and mention some time delay, let me know if you (or anyone on here) are interested at any point in the future.
Ultimately I may get lucky and be able to keep it all, I may not, as said I have a lot of life decisions to make (you can tell it wasn't my decision) so watch this space.
irrespective of my offer - I can only recommend keeping in mind a second hand top machine over a shiny new far east model.
it is going to be painful giving up this new found hobby.
all the best
Joe