I'm an Angie's List agnostic

When I need some home repair, I use Angie's List. I think I'm paying dearly for it.

Angie's List is founded on the idea that customer experiences are the best gauge of a company's performance. The membership organization functions as the intermediary between vendors, usually home-repair oriented, and those who hire their services. Members provide feedback about their experiences, and using this data, Angie's List rates local service companies. Members in turn look to this list when they need a service, so a good rating can drive a great deal of business. The List also acts as ombudsman in looking for resolution of disputes.

I have no quibble about the quality demands that the List puts on vendors. The companies I've hired from the list have been very professional and attentive.

The reason I'm an agnostic is that my experience suggests I pay through the nose for using the service. For example, a few weeks ago, I had a leak in a two-part toilet. With an injured arm, I was unable to do the simple plumbing myself, so I called a plumber with a top Angie's List rating, one that promised a savings for List members.