Currently I have a 1980s Schwinn sprint. I've gotten tired of constantly fixing it though (because it's honestly a piece of junk) and I've decided to buy a new bike, but I'm really overwhelmed with the number of options out there.

I commute about 12 miles a day, and ride about 60-70 miles a week. I need to be able to carry loads: lights loads (>20 lbs) 5-6 days/week + a heavy load (~50 lbs) of groceries 1 day/week. The bike MUST have drop handlebars and preferably be able to stand up to numerous potholes and bad paving jobs. The biggest problem is my budget. I would like to stay around $500 but I'm willing to spend up to $700 if it means getting a bike that will last longer. I thought I wanted a road (racing) bike, but after thinking about what I want to use my bike for, I was thinking a touring bike may be better. A cyclocross bike would be ideal I think but I haven't been able to find any that are in my price range and also have a rear rack mount.

The bikes I was looking at are the Fuji touring road bike (this is currently my top choice), fuji sportif 2.1, specialized allez e5 (not sure if it has a rack mount), or the KHS Flite 150. I know the specialized bike would be a good investment but I'm not sure if it has a rack mount or can handle load carrying, which is why I was leaning towards the fuji touring (I'm also fond of steel frames). But, if you have suggestions for other brands, please let me know what they are!