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If you have to save money i would say 'crons as they have expensive units and simple painting, but they badly need some updates. They are probably the fastest army to paint since its just metal painting. ( $200-400 will increase when they get the new codex)

If you want to use special abilities with your basic units in a close/medium range armry and have around $800+ go with witch hunters as they are an outdated but intimidating army when used right. (ebay is one of the best ways to go as they are discontinued and all metal)

Go I.G. if you want ridiculous numbers, ordanance shots, anti horde, ountnumber most elitest armies ( this would be the best way to go) and have a around $400- 600

Tau are very hard to use in the edition but are still a great army( much better than 'crons imo) if you dont want to move a lot and have 30" s5 shots with basic troops. Not sure how much you would need to be good though (see above for estimates)

Welcome and good luck.