I wouldn't say that any swords under $1000 are not worth looking at. If all you demand is authentic feel and balance, and decent steel and craftsmanship, and you don't care about its 'pedigree', I've seen many nice swords under $1000, some even made in China. I've got my eye on one for under $200 that has a real hamon and feels like the real thing. Plus that way I won't have to kill myself in shame when I inevitably chip or break the edge while out swinging it around in the yard :)
I'm suspicious.
A real katana is made of hammered folded steel, tempered through a differential hardening process which causes the distinctive curve, and is sharpened by polishing; the handle usually features real ray skin and is wrapped with silk cord. You don't get all that for under $1000.
This in contrast with cheap mass-produced "samurai swords", which are usually 440C stainless steel, cut to shape, and machine-sharpened; the handle usually features plastic wrapped in nylon. That's your usual $50-300 blade.
Ultimately depends on what you're using it for. Having fun swinging it around? get what you like. Practicing Iaido, Tameshegiri, etc.? you'll need proper balance and a real edge.