6 figure salary? Keep it as long as you can.
Epilog/Trotec ? Don't forget ULS - and don't forget second hand as an option.
Dual capacity machines - nope.
Making $ from it ? OK what's the next joke? Experience takes time, and $ takes clientele with fussy tastes and needs.
Those two items cannot be bought or swapped. Familiarity with DESIGN is needed, and good design, and that's not the same as using MS Word or Publisher to set out a child's birthday card or an arrangement of clip art. Good layout and design skills can take years to hone.
Lasers are just tools, like quality chisels, hammers and a good workbench.
It is your ability to use the tools that makes all the difference, and can make, or just as easily break, you!
I wish you well with your learning curve!
Best wishes,
Ian
ULS M-300, 55w made 2002 with rotary. Goldenlaser 130 watt, 1300x700 made 2011.
Flat bed 2500x1300 150/90watt 2 tube laser, 2018 model.
Esab router, 1989, 4.5 x 2.0 m, conv. to Tekcel, and modded a 2nd time.
HP L260-60". Roland PNC-1410. Mimaki GC-130 SU.
Screenprinting carousel 6x4 and 7x4 ft 1-arm bandit vac table.
Corel Draw X3, Illy, Indesign & Photoshop CS2 & CS5, Enroute 4
Pencil, paper, paintbrush, airbrush & dagger-liners & assorted other stuff.