I always check TER and other sites.  I even Google names, numbers and use TinEye.  No reviews or history to be found: no way am I contacting them.  I give the same treatment to established providers to get a feel for how our meeting may go, their likes/dislikes and hints on the services or experiences they may enjoy that aren't necessarily listed on their ad/website.   If I am being screened (and I hope I am if I'm providing information),  it should be expected I'm doing some screening, too.  Heck, I even check for board posts to get a feel for their "tone".

Granted, I'm single and not in the military, but most of my hobbying is done when I travel.  The local scene in Alaska is sparse by comparison.  Finding a local provider that matches what you're looking for (wether it be visually, service, availability, price-range, venue...whatever) can be a challenge.

As for reviews, I personally have stopped writing a review unless it's requested or I feel there's something to be shared that hasn't been said before.