My serger and sewing machine are Singers. I like them because I can see what I am doing. They are also high quality, low maintenance machines which do not cost a whole lot of money. Like any other brand of sewing machines they range from absolutely simple to having way more features and stitches than you'll ever use!
The best advice when shopping for machines is to actually test them. Every sewing machine shop will let you do that. Also, the sellers offer great after the sale service and you know where to take your machine when it does need cleaning, repair or service done to it. Yes, do buy the machine from a reputable seller...not WalMart! Believe it or not, their prices are competitive and what's more, they can actually give you information about the machine. Once you establish a relationship with your sewing shop, they go out of their way to keep you coming back by offering deals on new machines, service and accessories.