EDITED RESPONSE[br]Welcome! You've been given great advice! Like others have said, I would start on the steel string acoustic. More versatile. The Guild M240e is a nice guitar, slightly larger body than a parlor (not by much) and for my small hands, it was excellent (I now own a Guild M20 and sold the m240e). it is in your price range, too.

Chicago Music exchange has really helpful sales people. They have a chat function on their website and are reputable. As does Sweetwater.

If there is a local guitar store in your area that is at least open to mail or curbside pickup, contact them, either by email or phone. If they are not allowing customers in the store, they may be able to help you narrow down choices. I have found that by establishing a relationship with a local shop, I've learned a lot about taking care of my guitar. By the way, I went in hell bent on either a Martin, Epiphone, or Taylor (all under the $500.00) Fell in love with the Guild.

Again welcome!