well, the shops you visited have some major issues. You are the one with the money. Keep looking until you find one that you like. Being in Syracuse, there must be some decent bike shops around.

Might check around with some cycling clubs and get their help (recommendation). Many of the bike shops survive because of overweight, rich men who don't know what to do with their money. (who can afford to blow $4-$10,000 bike, accessories like power tap ($1000+) and other goodies). You can have a very nice bike for $1000 range. We just don't fit their "normal" demographic. At least where I live. But money is money so I think you are being wise as to how you want to spend it.

and what Bicilista says welcome to TE

Meeeooowwww!
smilingcat