As was stated before MagicZak, a quality multi-geared genunine road bike that's not used, will be pretty much impossible to find, at your current price point. Your best bet will be to find a quality single speed. My earlier single speed recommendations along with RearViewBeer's Timeline suggestion are thus far, your best options.

As far as I'm concerned, if you're not willing to monitor your local Craigslist for a used chromoly steel road bike, then your next best thing will be either a brand new single speed or an entry level, Sora equipped, multi-geared, road bike purchased online.

Perhaps a multi-geared road bike like this one:

The Windsor Wellington 2.0 ~ $350
www.bikesdirect.com/products/windsor/wellington2_IX.htm