Reverb is showing the least expensive Vintera Strat priced @ $599 US. You can find older MIM Fender Standard Strats available for $500. I'm a big fan of the Vintera '50s Stratocaster Modified, which gives you the stock 7-way mod (S1 Switch). I only bought the body as I like chunkier necks than the stock modern C neck.
What neck specs does your friend prefer or does it even matter? Rosewood/Pau Ferro/Laurel fretboard or maple neck? Neck radius preference? Body finish color preferences?
The quality reputation for Squier Classic Vibe Strats (like the CV Teles) has been positive. Some decent body finishes on the CV series as well as the Squier 40th Anniversary vintage and gold editions. All priced below $500.
I had a Squier Classic Vibe '50s Stratocaster for a while and it was a solid guitar. The stock pickups were perfectly fine. I did put some Q Pickups Strat pickups. I only moved it on in my ongoing downsizing effort. This was due to some OSG forum influencer from across the pond that put the idea of downsizing into my pea-sized brain. Damn his sensible ideas!!
...My wife thanks him for it.
Used Fender Japan guitars are a bit over $500 here - definitely worthwhile having a look but I can't speak to having personal experience with their Strats - always liked my Fender Japan Jazzmasters and Mustang well enough.
Another option is to see what Stratosphere has for a parts-build. Their website seems to be down for maintenance for the last day or so and today. You can find existing parts-builds for sale on Reverb and eBay but unless specific details (quality components, etc.) are provided, I'd be hesitant to go that route.
Given your time constraint (wedding next year), another option is an MJT build (or some other builder) but the body alone might be fairly close to $500 US depending on wood preference. You can always pair it up with a used or aftermarket Strat neck for reasonable cost. The bonus here is after knowing if your friend has a particular preference in neck and body finish color, you can get him something spot on with what he'd want. It's gonna stretch over the budget but I know you're good at finding deals.
Still, the CV or 40th Anniversary models have a lot of great finish options and could make this a whole lot less time-consuming venture.
Good luck!
The doofus formerly known as Snorre...