First, welcome.
Next, you should generally put some sort of description of what you need help with in the topic.
So moving on. I think you could find a very decent 6th Gen for that price range. I imagine in AZ, there would be a lot less rust issues.
Check for oil leaks
Find out when / if the timing belt was done, by who?
Get CarFax and run the VIN or the plate, whatever(I think you get unlimited plate runs) - it will tell you obviously accidents n crap like that, but also if it was professionally maintained.
The valves will tap lightly, it's a Honda thing, but if it's obnoxiously loud, I'd be a little weary.
Go with a second person so someone can watch you drive it / rev to see if there's any smoke
Hold your hand over the exhaust tip while it's running, for a few seconds, should point out any obvious exhaust leaks
Honda rot - these things rust, mostly around the rear quarter panel
Check under floor mats for moisture, they sometimes leak
Check in the trunk where the spare tire is, they sometimes leak
Check for transmission pop-outs or grinds while you drive (light driving vs getting into it)
Other than that, just check the basics and anything that seems off, just try to use it to leverage the price, like if the CV boots are torn, valve cover gasket shows leaking, tie rod end boots are open, etc.
I ended up paying around that much for a pristine 2000 EX coupe 5spd, professionally maintained, no accidents, 2 owners, quarter sized Honda rot on driver side, spotless interior and totally stock.
Hope that helps.