Why a <$750 bike may not be <$750
Because you will eventually spend more money upgrading or replacing components over the long haul. I bought a Scott Speedster S4. The rear wheel broke spokes and is being rebuilt with less than 1000mi on it. I hope to get a better set of wheels this year, which will be a $250+ upgrade. I may target other components later - $$$.
I can't ride that bike while it is being fixed. Time off the bike is a waste too.
I do like the Scott frame, I think it will be a great platform to upgrade on.
If I were looking for a bike again, I would have looked for something with at least a 105/Ultegra mix, bombproof wheels, etc...
Initially, such a bike would cost twice as much as the Scott S4, but I would have had 3x the bike. I would also be riding it instead of being frustrated with mechanical difficulties.