Getting a Nanny is like getting a good job, a good wife & so forth. You have to be really lucky go get a good nanny. Getting through agency will cost more & getting some one through contact is cheep. But as i said you really need to be lucky. Few tips (not necessary to work in all cases) Fresh Nanny or house maid no experience easy to mould. Many a cases experienced one know how not to work, they know many trick of the trade. Best of luck on your hunt