Need camera for exterior use

I'm looking for a good camera and was hoping some knowledgeable folks here could help me. I've done quite a bit of research online, but I feel like I need some guidance. I take pictures of outdoor scenes quite often for my job, such as landscape, hardscape, trees, plants and buildings. I was thinking some sort of point-and-shoot might do the job but I'm not sure. I need something that fits the following:

1) cost under $500

2) portability - I'd like something I can carry in a pocket....

Need camera for exterior use Need camera for exterior use