I would strongly suggest buying the Jeep you want vs. buying a beater with the plans to fix it up. Fixing a Jeep up is always more expensive in the long run and a lot tougher. You end up spending all of your time in the garage fixing it instead of using it. Ask me how I know... I currently have one in the garage that's been there for three years (that I now hate) and one in the driveway that I'm making a payment on. Guess which one gets used more? I understand you have a budget, and I get that, believe me I do, but do look for the best Jeep you can afford. If you have to stretch a little that's okay for the right one(like clean, needs no repairs, lower miles, etc..). IMO, I'd buy a clean one owner sport over a slightly hammered, white trash modified Rubicon any day of the week. Look for one that's never been modded and owned by older folks.