For overall value, I would have to agree that Sig is a good general value, with good kits, good quality wood and overall fit and finish. I have built the Kadet Mark I, Kadet Mark II and will be shortly starting a Kobra. I have also built a Balsa USA swizzle stick (can't comment on the flight characteristics as it was too long ago), but it was a very inexpensive buy, with most of the wood being in the wing.

I have a fondness for Pilot kits (long since out of production). I am just finishing a QB-40S (stands for "Quick Build, 40 size, shoulder wing), which I started at some point in the 90's.... (So much for Quick Build!)

I have a Spit Mark II and a Hurricane Mark II (both Pilot kits) that I haven't started yet, but are very impressive looking kits.

I have built the old Midwest line of foamies, including Cardinal and Attacker, which were good prices, but hard to fuel proof. I still have the 20 size chipmunk, but probably don't have the skill to build it. (the Attacker, with a 40 in it was very high performance - just a rocket!)

All of that being said, I would put:

Total overall price value for trainer - Balsa USA Swizzle stick - mainly due to its simplicity.
Best first build value - trainer - I'd go with Kadet Mark II (although others may prefer the LT-40) - helps with the building skills yet still rugged and you want to keep it longer than your first few flights.

When in doubt, I'd choose a Sig kit.

Anyway, these are my thoughts....