What is the collective experience on using providers that are independent versus those with agencies? I have found that agency-based providers are, almost, ripoffs. I pay the fee and then they say it just covers their time - anything more is xtra $. But sometimes they won't really do much more.

A technique I've tried to weed out the ripoffs is to fondle, just a little bit, when she comes in the door. If she acts stand-offish or has a 'hands off' attitude, then it is likely she's not going to be providing good service.

And before you hand over your cash or pay the agency fee tell her what you want and what your looking for and what your willing to pay ... then listen to her answer and make your decission ... be ready to say "see ya" ....

agencies, by their very greed and lust for money, are more likely to host ROBs, B&Ss and Up-sells.  indy providers just want to establish a reliable client base and prosper and BS like this hurts their bizness (there ARE excpetions, always).  too many agencies live and die by the mantra "there's always new fresh meat to bleed"  and yes, some indys may think the same, but their #s are fewer i think

your "fondling" acid-test is somewhat effective (it used to be getting naked real quick would be another -- also "proved" you were most likely not LE, but not anymore). being very explicit has its pros/cons: it could let her know you mean business or set the terms for the transactions, or it could scare her off thinking you're LE

frankly, what LE doesn't know about the fine-art of this hobby can fill a book (and is also best not talked about on boards!

Question is what do you want to pay.  I know in my city there is a very good agency and you will get everyting you want but you will end up paying about twice what you would pay for an independent of the same quality.  And if you want longer sessions the price diffenence is even greater.

is the amount of time they will spend with you.  Agencies are typically very strict on the length of time, whereas an independant is free to do as she pleases.  If she likes your company, she may stay much longer than agreed upon.  However, it is not always the case, as they say your mileage may vary...

The best policy is to do thorough research.  You'll find what you need here at TER.  I have never been remotely disappointed when I have done my research.

Before last weekend, I would've answered "independents", even though I hadn't yet seen an independent, and still haven't.

I would've answered "independents" because 1.)I had called an agency before, and didn't get full service (maybe I just didn't know what to do, but she didn't seem to want to be with me), 2.)I figured if a woman goes through all the trouble to manage her own business, it likely means she truly enjoys this type of work, and 3.)You get to contact and communicate with independents, directly.

However, irony is one of the forces that governs this universe, and the irony of dating an escort, for me anyway, (and I refuse to call this a "hobby") was that I met a wonderful woman who works for an agency, over the weekend, after being stood up by an independent.

Agencies are less of a hassle.

especially if you don't have references.

thirsty

I think it really depends which city you are in. Some cities have good agencies and not many indys. Some seem to be heavier in indys. Just depends in my opinion.

That's a good technque that you have.  If she's cold from the get go, chance are she isn't gonna warm up over the next 60 min.  Best to kick her out.  

Why?  Because the best providers I've had usually were hands on as soon as I walked in.

Agencies are breeding grounds for being ripped off.  They have you by the balls.  I've talked about this in other posts in this forum, but I'd reccomend that if the agency doesn't have great reviews here, don't use them.  

Good luck