I just had my ATF tell me she wouldn't see me anymore based on my participation in this thread. The message came with a cryptic warning that she wasn't the only one feeling this way about me. So, perhaps it has destroyed some credibility and trust between us all.
Am I worried about it? Not at all. It's a hobby; not my job or way of life.
In general, I agree that this free market research should have been valuable to all parties. Was it perfect? No; it wasn't designed by Price, Waterhouse, Cooper to be comprehensive and probably did exhibit some bias.
I'm glad someone asked me though. Maybe a few providers read these posts and thought "I like the way he communicates; I wish he were my client." If so, now they know my budget and what it takes for us to spend time together.