i think if you have been enjoying riding and think you like biking enough to take time out of your schedule to indulge in it, then maybe you should go 'all out' and splurge the 1000 dollars. i mean if you already know you like the sport, then buying a cheaper bike would be a decision you will end up regreting.
if you know you like to bike and would be doing it often or would atleast like to do it often, and also if you know what kind of bike would suit your needs, then go ahead and get a good bike man. 1000-1200 dollars would get you a quality hardtail with a decent fork, brakeset and drivetrain.