Well, I would absolutely NOT recommend Leveticus for new players. Even if they can wrap their heads around him, they would still have to relearn the game when moving to another master. But to start him within that budget, I would recommend: his box, Hollow Waif and Canine Remains (basically mandatory), and then probably Ashes and Dust (or one of the Riders if A&D is out of your price range.)
Ramos I would pick up his box, Electrical Creation, Mobile Toolkit and his avatar (which is cheap for an avatar PLUS comes with Steampunk Arachnid Swarm/3 Steampunk Arachnids.
Somer I don't see working so well within budget but Ophelia sure does! Pick up her box, Young Lacroix, Bayou Gremlins and you are basically there. Maybe add Slop Hauler, Burt or Wong.