[robby]

It really depends on the size of the front of the house how many strands of lights you'll need. The cost also depends on the type of lights. The plain color bulbs are cheapest, with the ones that flash being a little more expensive. Over the last couple of years, they have come out with a variety of hanging bulbs (kind of look like icecles) that are quite a bit more expensive.

I usually charge 2x - 3x what the bulbs cost me plus labor. You can get long strands of the bulbs at a Cosco or other warehouse store for about $20 that will cover the front of a smaller home.

I have a supply now, but when I started, I didn't buy the lights until I had the order placed and paid for since I didn't have any extra cash at that time. It only takes a few houses before you can tell pretty much if one string will do or if you'll need to use more.