I tried to register as a pro and came across a low cost project whose value was under $250.And to send a quote to that is of course free. And if the customer responds I will be charged, $46 and change, that too with absolutely no assurance that I will get that project!
This is absolutely ridiculous and daylight robbery. The customer may have some questions for which he might respond and I will get chargeed for that as well. How convenient and cheap way to make money!
If your issue is how to stop customers and pro's contacting directly without paying thumbtack, then there are simple solutions to fix that hole. I have been a ecommerce specialist and this is definitely not the way to charge anyone!
I do not think I will be using thumbtack service much anymore, as a customer and as a pro, because even as a customer if I ask a question to the quote, Thumbtack will rob the "pro" of their so called service fee!
If Thumbtack need solutions, they can contact me. Maybe I can answer their questions for free if they happen to have any questions!
A very disgruntled Pro and customer!