I think the biggest enabler of all is the internet. Without it I doubt we would really buy anything until you absolutely needed it. I think of all my buys, probably most were bought when up the week before I had absolutely no interest. I see something that catches my eye, the idea ferments for a bit and the next thing I am on the 'due diligence' search and in line to buy. Although I have never bought anything and then when it has arrived changed my mind. There again, I have scurried round, wasted time, then decided no.
I have quite fancied a Juki if the big Pfaff dies, but I suspect the IDT will win out. While I've been sewing downstairs I have experienced the limitations of the little Activa 215. Not enough needle positions, not enough width and with the walking foot too bulky. However, the concealed zip foot is ace, right place every time.