Hi,
I am new to the hobby and have been reading the reviews and stuff. Great stuff for finding what you are looking for, but prices for most of the ladies on this board are way over what I can afford.

I am drawn to try out the more cost effective ladies on BP and CL (Sorry it is due to the finances mostly), so knowing that, would you recommend BP or CL? I am up in the Baltimore area.

thank you

I would hold off until your financial situation improves.

You get what you pay for. 1 good one much better than 2 or 3 bad

The advice you will almost always receive is to stay away from both, but lately a good number of reviews are showing up on backpage ladies.  Like you I have to look for the best deal since I can't afford the $250 - $300 sessions.  You do need to spring for VIP then find bp ladies with decent reviews - they do exist and I have had more great experiences than fair.  You will almost never find a craigslist lady with a review.  I have seen one but she does not want reviews.

I would rather spend more and be certain that I'd have a good time than take a chance on the cheap. To me, the "hobby" is not a necessity so quality trumps quantity.

Fortunately, one can always get his joystick lubed as long as he has a free hand while on the computer. But if frequent philandering is essential, then bringing a tip jar with you might help a bit.

but you better have the time and skills to weed through a lot of fake/marginal(or less) postings made by who knows who.
This is the trade off as I see it. A lot of gils start on BP or (dare I say it CL). Many are not experienced, may not even be aware of TER or the many other sites.  
They may want to do good but could be clueless on what is expected of them.
No comment necessary on the ripoffs' motives.
LE lurks on BP and Cl too. Easy and cheap to set up a sting.
How you feeling so far? Ready to jump in the pool?

If you're limited to BP and CL then you should only pick reviewed escorts. There are also reputable agencies that offer half hour dates.

As above:  a) invest in a subscription to TER, and b) stay with well reviewed providers.  Finally, don't sacrifice your financial well-being.

... unless you find them well reviewed on here on TER (not just 1-2 reviews, and read the text).

You may save more in the long run.
You may even save more than just your money.