Unlike grading automobile safety features, rating a service requires real-world experience from non-dummies. Gain an educated perspective with today's Groupon: for $12, you get a one-year membership to Angie's List (a $39 value, including the $10 signup fee).

Angie's List offers nationwide service, collecting quality reviews to help consumers find high-quality contractors, doctors, mechanics, veterinarians, and more. Membership grants access to more than 500 home and personal services in categories such as home, health and wellness, auto service, and pets. The location-specific site uses a certified data-collection process and does not accept anonymous reviews to better ensure transparency. More than one million members nationwide grade experiences on a scale from A to F, with optional marker-drawn smiley faces awarded for especially outstanding achievements.

Tech-savvy perks such as a mobile app, buying and selling access in a digital marketplace with exclusive discounts, and live call center support (available six days a week) keep consumers in the net-based know. Additionally, the included monthly Angie's List Magazine provides helpful tips to readers, with articles covering topics such as in-home etiquette for visiting contractors and the key differences between doctors and mad scientists.