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Hi Miss M! I'm a fitness professional and recommend a lot of different fitness equipment, based on my clients' needs. Stay away from Nordic Track, Weslo, Image, Epic, Proform, Healthrider, Reebook, or any other fitness equipment from the Nordic Track family. Based on personal experiences and reviews, they just aren't worth the money... For quality built treadmills (in other-words those that will be reliable and last for years) I recommend Horizon. Depending on the features you're interested in there are 4 models available, all w/ great warranties. For their price they're the best deal around! I just checked pricing yesterday for someone and A2Z Fit (link & phone below) was the best on-line dealer out there and one that I've worked with many times in the past. They even beat Amazon on price and additional services, freebies, and no sales tax except for deliveries to PA. I'd suggest you give A2Z Fit a call or send them an e-mail describing what your needs are. Also, since you live in an apartment in NYC I'm not sure how the whole "free shipping" thing would work, but you can talk that over with them. They'll definitely be able to help you out... I hope my suggestions are what you're looking for! PS: A few days have passed since I wrote the above info. I was speaking with A2Z Fit today regarding a treadmill for a client of mine. While I had them on the phone I asked about your situation. They said it would be "free shipping" over the main door of your apartment building, assuming there weren't a lot of steps involved getting to the front door. From there it's possible for you & your boyfriend to carry the treadmill up your stairs, since it comes folded & securely packaged in a convenient sized box. Let me know how your treadmill hunting goes or if you have any other questions...