Decide what features are must-haves. The dryer pictured was only $299. I gave up the bell that rang when the clothes were dry, because the cheapest model with that feature was $200 more.
On the other hand, I had a dishwasher that had a valve malfunction and caused damage to my kitchen floor. I was willing to pay more for a machine that would stop itself and drain if this happened.
You may be able to save quite a bit of money by purchasing your next appliance at a scratch and dent store. Check online to find one locally. Department and big box stores also sometimes have floor models and returned appliances being sold at a discount. This is a page about finding scratch and dent appliance stores.
This is a page about buying second hand appliances. One way to save money on expensive home appliances is to shop for second hand ones in good repair.