GE gets the best reviews for inexpensive cooking equipment. The Whirlpool/Maytag conglomerate does OK with mid range stuff, but their cheap stuff is really cheap. Frigidaire is builder grade all the way through till you get to the top price level, and even then a lot of it uses the same crappy components.

My top suggestion to you would be the GE JBS55DMWW. It gets wonderful reviews and is a workhorse. You can get black or white on sale for $499 with free delivery. (Remember that the actual range cord will need to be purchased, and that older homes will need a 3 wire cord.) If they want stainless steel, that's $100 more that I would make them pay for. There's no shame in having black or white appliances in a starter home!

Here is a link that might be useful: JBS55DMWW

FWIW, Consumer Reports' "Best Buy" in the 30-inch Smoothtop category is the GE JB700DN[WW].

Very similar look the the model posted by LWO. Sugg ret. $700

Tanks
That is model on my list
Might go to Sears outlet and check some they list as floor models vs refurbished---some prices for same model are 200 less than others for what seems better choice
Don't know why that would be the case if it was unblemished
Just would need to see first hand the condition

Kenmore always ranks high (best buy) on consumer reports lists. I have a Kenmore smooth top that is about 6 years old. Did have to replace burner but it works just fine.

I put a double oven range in my house a year ago and love it. I am moving and just put the exact same model in my new house. It a Whirlpool and everything on it works perfectly.

It allowed me to get rid of my toaster oven and I very rarely have to heat up the big oven. I cook and bake in the little one almost exclusively.

Sears doesn't manufacture their own appliances, Kenmores are rebadged Whirlpool, Fridgaire, etc