My forum EliteTopics.com still has it's default logo/skin. I am looking for a change, something that would go perfect with it. I have been looking for skins for about 3 weeks now, and I still can't find anything. I am willing to pay around $50 or less for a new design, so if anyone can help me with this, please PM me. If not, please give me some advice as to what I should do with my forum's design, Thanks.
You need some type of introductory text. You don't know where you are, or why you're there when you visit.
You should change the top ad to a 728x15 link bar to close up that gap and put in a 468 ad in the top right corner. Maybe align the top navigation to the left and the sign in link to the right also.
Forums are personally pretty tough to start up and make successful. On your main bar, In my opinion I would center the links instead of being to the right. I've always been a lefty for some reason. I also agree with RoyDixon, it's like randomly stumbling upon a page just out of curiosity, because you really can't tell where you are. You have to let readers know where they are and if you've caught their interests/attention, they'll stick around.
It will cost more that $50 for a custom design but if you do get a custom design, your chances of success greatly increase.
Aside from everything that has been stated already the content of your site is good now you must get a logo and find a theme that works well with your site.