I am looking to expand my business and I was thinking about becoming a member of the builders exchange and builders association. Is it worth joining these groups to try and get more work, or is it just a bunch of cut throat bidding going on threw these memberships. I would guess it depends on the area and the amount of work going on at the time. How would you guys rate it overall?

being a member of some associations does help you promote your business. I am member of a select few org. that gives back to my community you will get free publicity.

I am amember of a local builders exchange and have found a number of jobs to bid. So are appromately 45 other EC,s here in this area. Some of the jobs will draw a lot of bidders others maybe 2 or 3. It depends on the availibility of work and the jobs availble. You will find very little resi work there and not all jobs will be listed.
Check out all the builders exchanges in your area. Membership cost and copping cost can vary widely. It can be very useful and can alllow you to meet a number of those in the construction trades both suppliers and contractors.
You will have to make your own decision if the cost is worth it to you.