No advice except to listen more seriously to those in the know who give it. I honestly thinking finding a good and reliable maid is a matter of luck, and that if one happens to live in your house, do what you can to retain her.

Personally, I don't think it is worth all the hassle. There are plenty of people looking for part-time work to do the cleaning. Child-care is different, but fortunately for us we do not need to rely too heavily on anyone outside the family.