You have to play a lot of different guitars and buy what feels and sounds right for you.
That being said, I just purchased a MIM Fender Strat 2 days ago. I simply love this guitar. With the proper technique, amp/pedals, etc., you might find another axe with as much versatility as the Strat, but I bet it'd be hard. ;)
You can get one brand new and be within your mentioned budget.