Considering a new sewing machine/ recommendations appreciated. [View all]

I have an ancient Kenmore machine that my mother gave me in my early 20s - I'm now 73. It still works well enough, but has one major drawback. To go in reverse, there is just a little lever that does not lock into place so must be held down continuously by the right hand, leaving only the left hand to guide the fabric. The lever isn't broken, this is a design flaw.

The other problem with my current machine is that it weighs a freakin' ton and is hard to get out of its carrying case and up onto my kitchen island. Something lighter would be very nice.

I'm not by any means an accomplished seamstress. My mother was quite capable, and her mother was very skilled - she could and did make everything from coats with linings to tiny doll clothes, and got her own labels made that said "Grandma's Creation." Their skills were not inherited. I don't make clothes. I don't quilt. I mend and do minor/simple alterations. So, I don't need a pricey, ultra-sophisticated machine.

My local Joann Fabrics has a Brother ST531HD Strong and Tough model on sale, $199 down from $329. 4.5 stars in 96 customer reviews.

Any thoughts from those more experienced and accomplished than I?