Hi there I'm new here plan on picking up a evo 8 in the near future. My budget is no more than 20k that should be reasonable right?

Do you suggest I look for stock cars or cars that have been built and messed with already?

 

Yeah, $20K is reasonable & good reference point @ReMiXeDg

The other question is tougher. Sure, find a stocker if you can. So many have been modded but there are those non modified ones still out there

Regardless of the mods done, i am a believer in that these added mods add little value to the base EvO price

 

Theoretically, you should be able to find an 8 with that budget. The miles and condition will vary. You have a better chance of finding a "return to stock" than a bone stock car, that is how rare unmodified Evo's are. I agree with MinusPrevious, mods should not significantly inflate the price of the car. I would research common bolt-on parts most owners opt for, as these are upgrades most owners would do, even on a relatively stockish car. These FBO cars comprise most of the "for sale" listings I see, and are likely your best bet. A fully built Evo or completely bone stock one w/ low miles will be more than $20k. Check below link for what people are willing to pay for a given year/mileage/condition:

https://bringatrailer.com/mitsubishi/lancer-evolution/