As a consumer, horrible experience, also hearing the same feedback from the biz owner.
I provided the 'top pro' with a pic of the work, '1' single pole light switch replacement - I provided the material, new switch and plate = all labor job. His advertised rate was $50/hr. He accepted the work, no estimate or contract, scheduled and completed the job and as expected, finished in ~30 minutes. He then messaged me and said ok, the bill is $120?! He proceeded to tell me that I'm stealing because I would not pay 2.4x higher than his advertised rate. False and deceptive advertising is illegal on a state and federal level. He admitted the work was only labor, but cried about Thumbtack fees and how long it took to get to the job - how is this my problem?
After waiting nearly 3 weeks to talk to a human to address this disparity, Thumbtack support totally passed the buck and said hey, not our problem; yet they facilitate the advertisement of rates that are entirely misleading.
I paid the 'pro' his hourly rate and the Thumbtack fee they hit him with, $70 in total. In turn, the 'pro' responded to me and accused me of stealing because I refused to pay $120...? Avoid frustration and avoid this platform, total joke.