I get it. The last two buys (vintage) I made were in Indiana. I live in TN now. So here's my favorite tip: Once you've got a solid idea of what you want, search other area which you might visit for family reunions or events. five hundred miles is too far to go for a cheap find but a family member can grab and save it for you on your next trip or visit! I picked up my Centurion in Carthage IN (town of only 800 and the guy lived only three blocks from my youngest brother) and my Specialized in Fort Wayne on an Xmas trip to Fort Wayne two years ago.
Since everyone wants pics I've included a worthless selfie.