Speaking of MIM Standard Strats (and probably tele's too), they are good starter guitars, however, be aware that they are not the normal 3 piece Fender bodies, but anywhere from 5 to 7 boards glued together, then laminated with alder on the front and back (or poplar on the pre 2001 guitars). Also, the bridges are not vintage width, they are smaller, so your upgrade options are limited. Pickups also are more cheaply made versions of Fender standard offerings, they feature ceramic bar magets under steel poles as opposed to the typical Alnico Poled single coils usually found on Fenders.
Speaking of Epiphone, I would argue that guitars like the Agile's are similar or better quality for much less money. Made in Korea in a lot of the same factories as Epi's, the LP copy has a maple neck, 2 to 3 piece mahogany body, with flame or quilt maple veneer. They are good solid guitars available for $200 to $250. They have set necks and a nice carved top.
Personally, I think that building a guitar yourself (from USA Custom Guitars, or Warmoth) is the best way to go to get a quality instrument. Resale is not that good, but you will get more money if you part it out on ebay, anyway.