Elliptical Machines - Please help

[grouchie]

Guys,
I have decided that I am going to start eating better, exercise more (or start for that matter) and lose 40 pounds by the end of the year.

When I go to my little free gym in the apartment complex they have limited machines, an exercise bike, an elliptical and some small weight machine.

I have started using the Elliptical to help build up my cardio and strengthen my lungs (I have asthma and exercise induced asthma).

This is all good and stuff, but I know I would be 100% more likely to continue exercising to help meet my goals if I actually had the machine in my apartment, so I am looking to buy one.

Is there anything in particular that i should be looking for?
One brand better than the other?
One particular machine recommended?

I'm probably willing to spend up to $1500 as my upper limit.

Any thoughts, comments, suggestions, silly nancy-boy remarks welcomed.