I have to agree with the last few posters. Custom bikes can be reasonably priced or ridiculously expensive, depending on frame material and fabricator, and would certainly fit into your budget. At this point in my own cycling life, I'd go for custom frame only and whatever components I can best afford (or re-use), then upgrade the latter if necessary. I rode various stock bikes for 6 years before springing for a custom steel Independent Fabrication Crown Jewel earlier this year. It's been worth every penny.