What reptile is right for me? Oh, and i'm new here....Hi!

If you really want to get a piece of rainforest you could build a pretty awesome dart frog display set up with that budget, and some high-end frogs once it's up and running.

I have learned with reptiles that no matter how much I read and research, that is not all that is needed when it comes to reptile care. It is like reading a book a skiing, you can know everything about it, but once you're on the slops you still have to learn. I think it's fantastic that you are doing so much research though! You will not make the mistake of an impulse purchase and it seems that you want what is best for your animals. It is best to select an animal that it right for you and your life style. Whether or not that animal is common or not is separate. I personally believe that often tropical species are more difficult to keep up than desert species. I have heard good things about Kenyan sand boas which are still common but certainly less so (from what I have seen). Other more experienced owners have already posted before me and so I would listen to them.

Good luck with everything. Welcome to the herp world =) I hope you find a wonderful scaly friend who is right for you :D