Hardtail to 1st Full Suspension?

Hello all,

I have had my Giant Talon 2 for nearly a year now and feel that it's time soon to upgrade to full suspension. I just don't know how to decide or where to start between so many brands and models!

My budget is not too high, maybe $3500 max.

I ride mostly in the CA bay area, so a lot of Santa Cruz, Pacifica, Joaquin Miller in Oakland, Del Valle in Livermore, etc. if that helps.

I'm not too much into jumps, but would love taking on more technical climbs or downhill speed.

Thanks in advance!!