I too just got back into riding. Ive been riding MTB's for about a year or too. (KONA) I just bought my 1st road bike. A FELT AR4. Great ride. I also was shocked at what some people will pay for a bike. I started working with POLAR HRM about 3 years ago, and when discussing bikes with my clients i had no idea that someone could put 10 to 15 grand in to a bike. What ever you do test ride as many as you can. Best of luck and ENJOY your ride.
Rob G