I started with sq ft pricing, and with a similar thread and similar advice many moons ago, I have come to agree completely that a per stop method is best, while spelling out a materials list, electrical plan, and listing of "devices and lighting" provided (say, 45 SP SW, 50 15A recepts, 12 3-W SW, etc.) to limit their ability to add things you did not count on in your proposal.
A small 800 sq ft house could be wired for as little as $2500 or as much as $5000.
Large houses will vary even greater.
Sq Ft, unless specified code minimums (or like sparky said, for the shoot from the hip- tire kickers) is just too unpredictable.
Service is an entirely different animal.
[This message has been edited by sparky66wv (edited 12-09-2002).]