how much should I spend to get a better turntable than my current turntable?

Congrats on the Rega P3! This is definitely a turntable your system can grow around. Rega will start widening the gap with Fluance as your system becomes more resolving. At this price point it’s a solid table.

Rega P2 is an easy recommendation. I had the P2 and it’s a solid table. A bit above your budget if you can stretch it. If you choose to buy new I suggest getting it from Upscale Audio and have them either mount whatever cartridge you decide to get or if you want to get it as a bundle with Rega cartridge have them check the table and cartridge. Free service. This alone is worth it if you’re not experienced with a turntable set up and or don’t have the proper tools to do it. They have a 60 day return policy if I am not mistaking. 

Cool. Let us know what you end up with. 

@grislybutter think about the new turntable that’s en route and stop being so sensitive. 
what cartridge did you opt for on your RT85?

Nice! Looking forward to your thoughts on this new table!

What you’re describing is a product of turntable not being perfectly level, antiskate is not properly set and VTF isn’t right.

First and foremost, make sure the table is level - remove the cover, use adjustable feet or coins under the feet and check that it’s perfectly level using a bubble level. Only then set antiskate and VTF (use digital stylus force gauge for VTF). Check it all and test it. Play your records without the cover on the turntable. The cover is there to keep the dust away and not for using when playing records.
Second - the black lacquer finish is susceptible to scratches. Use soft microfiber cloth to keep it clean but there’s no way around it, you’ll get swirl marks and light scratches. I wouldn’t worry about it too much.
Get the set up right.

Why…is it too difficult to remove the cover? Should just slide into and out of the mounts on the back. 

@ghdprentice +1. You don sound like you feel you got your money’s worth. Earlier I recommended Rega P2 set up by Upscale. You can’t go wrong there.