A big question I don't see many putting out there, is what do you intend to do with it? A racing road bike is quite a bit different from an endurance bike which is quite a bit different from a CX bike.

Once you nail down your long term goals with the road bike, then look for the best deal you can get, I'd definitely recommend something from your LBS though, makes everything easier in the long run. Also, for just getting into it, alum or carbon 105 is typically pretty decent, carbon Ultegra around that 2k mark is typically a pretty good deal and quite enjoyable.