Agencies are fine, so long as you stick with a reputable one. (Remember, reviews are your friend). I have used agencies many times and I haven't found the ladies to be any better/worse than indies. In fact, I generally prefer agencies because I can usually call and get an appt set up the same day, and if an NCNS happens, there's a good chance they have a backup.
The first time I saw Maxeen, she was with Mint. I have seen her a few times since she went independent, and the experience was amazing either way