Hello all,

I am a total newbie, and right now biking to work is still a concept. My experience is zero. So any and all advice is welcome!

My commute to work is 2 miles DOWNHILL, 500 ft decline. The commute back is just the opposite, 2 miles completely UPHILL, 500 ft incline. The terrain is urban streets.

(1) Where should I be looking for quality, yet affordable road bikes? I don't want to spend a fortune, but I need something that works too. I would love to keep the purchase price under $1000. Is this realistic?
(2) What makes / models? What specs do you recommend? I will only be using this bike for commuting. But keep in mind that my commute home is COMPLETELY UPHILL FOR 2 MILES. What type of bike makes sense for this type of commute?
(3) The reason I am planning to commute via bike: (a) fitness. I have been in the gym for a year now, ready to take it to the next level and drastically improve my stamina as well as reduce my bodyfat %. and (b) my car is the worst. My wife and I just bought a new family car. I'm using my old car as a commuter. I know it doesn't have many miles left and I only use for work commute. I'd rather get into good shape and start biking to work than buy a new car.

I am a male, age 32, 180lbs. In good physical shape, but could use a little work in the cardio and stamina departments. ALL YOUR COMMENTS ARE WELCOME AND VERY MUCH APPRECIATED. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE!