Moved from FL to NYC two weeks ago and getting ready to jump on the single speed/fixie bandwagon. I'm 5'9", 165lbs, 30yrs old. The bike's going to be used for a short commute to subway and exploring the city.

The only single speed I've ridden is a buddies 2013 SE Draft Lite. After riding the city for a week I was sold. After researching, it appears everyone around here says the drafts are cheap and go with the Kilo TT.

I'd prefer to keep it under $500 MAX, including lock/lights/etc. I would really prefer something in the 2-300 range that I can mod.

The only immediate issue with the Kilo is the handlebars, which I would swap to straight or bullhorn. If bought new (bikesdirect) it looks like I'll probably get a front brake or possibly both. Long story short, the Kilo is really pushing my limit.

I've found about a million different makes/models, most of which I have no idea what to look for specifically quality wise (brakes, drops, etc). Everyone has a different name/manufacturer so I've been basically searching for random reviews saying whether they're good/bad quality.

Locally I've found a few used rides that I'm looking at as alternatives to the Kilo and to get me started:

2009 Giant Bowery Mashup - $350 - Awesome look, can't find my info on it though other than people not liking the handle/brake levers, which I would probably switch as well.
2013 Fuji Declaration - $250
State Classic Reissue (new) - $360

Are any of them worth pursuing or am I going to be fixing/replacing items on them quickly and should just go for the Kilo? And other than looking for a crmo over hi-ten frame, what should I be looking for regarding components that are equipped?

Thanks guys.