For around-the-house, I don't think you can beat the "River Rock 2xAAA 0.5W LED" at Target for $9.99 (got mine on sale for $7.99). Don't get the other River Rock models with the lens in them - the beam is too narrow.

If you need something bright that will throw a beam a good distance, the Princeton Tec 40 (4xAA Xenon) is a good light for not much money (I'm guessing around $15, but I haven't bought one in a while).