For half the money of a Laskin you could get a Beneteau (St. Thomas Ontario). Nice guitars. A buddy has a classical and I got 3 steel strings, but they're still likely out of your indicated price range, though I once saw an early one way underpriced and poorly strung at a music shop, second hand. I regret not buying it too.
I still recommend the La Patrie nylons. My local shop has a nice one with the pickup and a case. Much bang for the (Cdn) buck!