What a nice budget, you obviously have an idea as to what you want.
I personally own a Century Carbon Metal, at 13' 6" it is a very nice rod to handle and cast with, I cast reel down, it will work equally well in the reel up position. The tip stays pretty still in wind and has good bite indication. And they cost less than £200 just!
I have one of the Abu grip-lock reel seats on mine, or you can use the excellent Century coasters!