Here's the bottom line. A short lesson on economics
The truth is regardless the business, the laws of economics, just like the law of gravity, cannot be ignored. The bald truth of the matter is that it is the market that determines the selling price, not the seller. As long as buyers refuse to pay the asking price, the effective selling price (and profit) is zero and all these providers will end up doing is pricing themselves out of the market. No doubt they will blame cheap hobbyists, or the business, or anything else besides themselves. But if hobbyists refuse to pay those prices, either the prices will come down or they will get out of the business.
I wouldn't pay $150 an hour, much less a half hour, and I don't think anyone else should either. Those asking for deposits should find themselves with no business. As long as schmucks continue to accept these unreasonable terms, providers will continue to demand them.
Don't be a schmuck. The laws of economics are on your side.
Humboldt or surrounding area?
So with Jackson being so hot these days, is anyone familiar with any other reliable providers from Humboldt or the surrounding area? I used to see one from Humboldt a few years ago but have lost contact.
If you don't want to post here please be so kind as to PM me. Many thanks!