I'm new to this never getting a provider before, Ive wanted to for about a year but find it hard to decide which site to trust and which provider to choose. Having tried and being ripped off I signed up here but I'm still confused and nervous about getting taken again. I guess my questions are how do I know the cost? Is a tip involved? What and how do I get a reference having never been to a provider?

It's pretty obvious from your comments, you did not do much research in choosing your providers.  This is a must.  Get VIP membership, if you don't already have it.  Read reviews, only considering those providers with 6 or more reviews by reviewers with 6 or my reviews.  Ask the reviewers via PM for additional info.

Since you have no references, there 2 ways you can go.  One, look for providers that advertise, 'newbie friendly', with the qualifications I mentioned above.  Two, join a verification service, like DateCheck, Preferred411, or Roomservice2000.  For those, you need to check with providers or hobbyists in your area to see which is most popular locally.  Once you have seen some providers, you can ask for them to give you a reference.

I would also suggest you start posting regularly on your regional board to get your name out there.  Once everyone sees you are legit, getting a date will be somewhat easier.

Good luck,
Swim

DateCheck is only $125 for a lifetime membership, hard to beat, IMHO.  P411 no longer offers a lifetime membership, and I have no idea about RS2K.  If you are willing to spend more on a provider, then you can afford to join one of these sites, I suggest you do it.  It will pay for itself in the long run, and save you a lot of headaches in the short run.

Swim

Think it's called drunk fingers.  Shit happens.

Swim

-- Modified on 8/3/2011 7:47:46 PM

Thanks for your advice swimtrekr, I must admit getting reliable info on this subject is difficult and I'm glad I found this site. I'll probably start with a VIP membership. I've looked into P411 and DateCheck but to be honest I'm a person of modest means and they are a little costly even though I'm willing to spend a lot more on a provider, not to mention it sketches me out to have them call me at work.

You advice has been helpful, I'm going to start looking for a board in Philly. Any suggestions?

Thanks again,

Mildar