I think the first one is the better of the three as it looks more modern and clean as you stated. However I think that it looks a little bit basic and could do with being a bit more interesting. In terms of the question you asked about whether you would look at someone's logo if looking for a deisgner. That would impact my decision massively, if a designer has a great logo I would consider looking at the rest of their site. However, if I saw a logo that was not very good I would most certainly not look any further.
Definitely the first one. It has a certain dynamism beyond just the screen-plane. There is also a trend to flat color logos now, and the first one sits firmly in that wheelhouse.
The first one is definitely my favorite! Very nice work man, keep that up and you'll be making money in no time!