2 bit RF control without microcontroller
Here's what the OP suggests and I've pointed out that you can buy a chip that directly interfaces with both ends that gives you 4 independant switches: -

QAM-TX1 in Farnell costs about £3.00 which means you can probably buy it for $3.00 elesewhere. The REF600E costs about £2.50 in Farnell and the same reasons as above will cost about $2.50: -



For the receiver the QAM-RX2 (as specified cost from Farnell £3.65 and so you can probably get it for $3.50. The RF600D is £3.12 from you know where and probably $3 elsewhere.



It's about as cheap and uncomplicated as it comes without a micro but maybe there are other options.