If all he needs is a CPU and motherboard on a $500 budget he could go with a 7700k (~$320) and an Asus Strix (~$190).
https://pcpartpicker.com/product/VKx9TW/intel-core-i7-7700k-42ghz-quad-core-processor-bx80677i77700k
https://pcpartpicker.com/product/2Phj4D/asus-strix-z270-e-gaming-atx-lga1151-motherboard-strix-z270-e-gaming
Hey new here I'm a tech sales guy at <inset big tech retailer here>, hence my name, and I'm going to school for Networking. I've been watching LTT for years I just now decided to join the forum. That's about it.