I have to say, spending $1000-$1200 gets you 2-3X the bike for $700-$800. If you can afford it now, just make the jump to an aluminum Shimano 105 or SRAM Apex bike. It will probably also have a frame worth further upgrades.

For the price ranges we're talking about I'd recommend: Specialized Allez &, Cannondale CAAD 8 & Synapse, and Felt F series. If it has to stay under $1k, look close at the Felt F85. The components on it are the same on $2k carbon bikes.

Don't fall into spending extra for a Trek. You'd only be trying the 1 series, which doesn't have a frame that compares to the ones I mentioned above.

Buying local, a good shop will fit you right.