Anyone have any tips for shopping for a handgun?

I’m seeking to purchase a handgun for myself and my wife to use. Primary application will be home defense. We’ve both shot various firearms before, but this’ll be our first pistol.

Can anyone help me figure out what to buy? Here’s some criteria:

I want a quality, reliable gun that’s powerful but easy enough for ‘beginners’ to use. I prefer to stay way from .22’s, favoring either a .45 or .380. I’m looking for a semi-auto pistol, not a revolver. My budget is about $400 or less, although I’m willing to go up to $500 if it’s just an amazing deal or a particular gun that’s just flat-out too worthwhile to pass up but it’s in the 500 range.

So far I’ve looked at Bersa and Taurus, and will probably settle on one of those unless anyone here has a better suggestion and fits in the price range. Thanks!