your analysis paralysis makes sense - the pricing swing you're seeing is huge and quality varies dramatically between cheap offshore VAs and more expensive services. the pricing differences reflect real quality gaps. tried cheap VA platforms initially and got people who couldn't handle basic business communication or made errors that cost more time to fix than doing it myself. ended up working with specialized services that focus on pre-vetted administrative professionals from regions like the philippines and latin america. way better english communication, understand US business practices, and handle confidential information professionally. proper VA services have established protocols for data security and NDAs. avoid random freelancers who can't demonstrate proper security practices for sensitive client information. paying $15-20/hour for quality admin support vs $5-8/hour for unreliable help. the difference pays for itself in accuracy and time savings. your NextDoor SAHM option might cost $25-30/hour plus payroll hassles. don't go with the cheapest option for admin work that touches your clients or sensitive information. the "sweatshop vs professional service" distinction you mentioned is real - invest in quality sourcing that delivers reliable results. the right VA becomes an extension of your business operations rather than creating more work for you to manage. worth paying more for someone who can handle tasks independently and professionally. what specific admin tasks are consuming most of your time right now?