I only go through nanny agencies. It is always free for nannies and it is the safe way to go. The agency does all the work in checking out the families and letting them know what to expect with a nanny. Some agencies also help in salary negotiation. They are also there as a support after you start working with the family in case things rise up and you have questions about what is right or not. I found one family online and I was with them one week. Big disaster. They had no clue what a nanny really did and expected me to work around the clock. I love agancies and will never enter another contract with out one.