The fee is insurance.  The escrow is stating he will replace the funds (insure) if you are the victim of fraud.

If you really believe the fee is for your time, explain why newbies shouldn't be escrows.  Their time is just as valuable as yours, they just can't insure it because they don't have the reputation.

Escrowing for yourself, esp if the other person isn't aware it's your alt - is fraud and scammy behavior.  Since you and the escrow are the same person, why do you get paid twice for your time?