Remote Worker != Outsourced Worker. I didn't touch on the many reasons why, but I would certainly entertain the idea of hiring somebody remotely ... but never remotely on the other side of the planet.
> Even if your assertion is true, $60 is dirt cheap.
60 x 8 x 5 x 52 = 124,800
That's a funny definition of dirt cheap.
> While it is possible to find local talent, the pool of good developers is limited
Not in a major city, especially if you know where and how to look.
> Personally I'm on call 24/7.
Except when you're sleeping? And if your time zone = my business hours, that's a problem.