I kind of agree, except the part about android phones. True the demand might be greater in popularity, however with this recession not everyone has the cash to fork over the $400+ for a new Android phone.
I called several shops who did the flashing over blackberry curve 8530, some charged an overwhelming $60 price, until I found a very reputable shop that did it for $35, fully flash in the cricket network (it is a Sprint phone) and everything. When the flashing price is within reasonable price, there wouldn't be a need to try and DIY.