Working with freelance software developers (from oDesk, eLance, Freelancer) on different projects got an idea to discuss this experience in the form of a free webinar, see https://using-freelancers.quickmvp.com/ for details.

I know that lot of startups are using remote developers and freelancers.

In my experience advantages are:

- you may find a very strong developer with a specific background required - the cost could be lower comparing to US developers - most freelance market sites providing optional protection for our funds in case the project failed

disadvantages are:

- different time zones sometime causing delays in the communication - you should be very careful selecting a freelancer especially if there is no much feedback for her/him - you may need to log all the communication on the freelance market site in case you want to have the escrow protection for your funds

If you used (or using currently) freelancers then could you please share your thoughts about advantages and disadvantages?