Ok I would look at a bike thats a little taller in the rear and not a super slack HA. Maybe 66 to 67. Bighit would work well but your price range is good enough for a solid bike. Some suggestions
Transition Dirtbag
Santa Cruz VPFree
Yeti ASX
There are a tonne others in that range, and your price is high enough where you have a lot of choice. So just keep the geometry in mind. I would test ride a couple and see which you like more. Oh and don't wait to come to canada to buy it...it will be more $$$$$$$