You work at a shop and expect a full suspension 29er for 700 bucks? Even at what I would guess EP prices to be (40-50ish % off most MSRPs from when I've worked in shops) that's quite a stretch. Without EP, I don't think you could do it even used.

Otherwise, most every mid to large sized brand has a hardtail 29er or two or more in their lineup. What brands does your shop sell?