This one weighs 19.94lbs as it stands. If I started putting carbon this and carbon that on it, I could get it in the 17-18lb range. Instead, I'm going to lube it up, replace the consumables, maybe brifters or barcons, then ride the $hit out of it.
With the budget you've set, and the commitment to steel, I don't know if you'll get much of, if any improvement over a modernized/upgraded used frame. You'll get the new bike look/smell. Maybe not much else. That's OK, new stuff is always nice!
