What type/size front wheel, what are your priorities (including e.g. semblance to rear)?
If I were in your position I would probably get one hand-built on Mavic Open Pro with ss db spokes and number depending on load carried. It is lighter, no less strong and would look like a pair with the existing rear. Depending on the hub it can certainly be bought for the budget (see e.g. Parker). I would probably give Harry Rowland a call first though.
What problems did you have with the current wheels?
What brake pads were you using? Who set the brakes up? What is your riding style (ie: do you brake hard a lot)? Did you ever clean the pads and rims?
It sounds very unusual for two different models of rim to fail/wear that quickly...