I agree with Whateve that most average bag customers out there don’t know the difference between Coach boutique and MFF, and outlets are more plentiful and accessible so that’s where they shop. I see a difference in MFF from 20-30 years ago and today. Back then the quality was better in many outlets items, and there were boutique deletes available. I can see it in the resale market, and in my own experience as a Coach customer since the late 90s.
I see Coach making an effort to market the outlet to more budget conscious customers, with the trendier and seasonal styles done in less expensive materials for the lower outlet price, but that doesn’t mean they are not great bags. There have been some amazing canvas beach bags from the outlet that are highly coveted by collectors. And the OP is correct- Coach holds its value very nicely- both MFF and boutique- provided condition is excellent of course.
If one has only ever shopped at the outlet, then I would recommend making the effort to get to a boutique. It will be a revelation.
Coachies know a great bag when they see one, whether it’s outlet or boutique.