Personally I'm a big fan of Miyata and Nishiki bikes of the late 80s. Even a lot of their lower-end models are triple-butted and are usually around 25 lbs. I'm not sure how hot the market is in Sarasota but I'd imagine you could find them there for less if I can find them in SF for around 300.

EDIT: Also check out Fuji, Bridgestone, and Univega. I've never owned any of those but they are regarded well among my friends.