BUildiing an email list

Sorry for the stupid question guys, but I'm just starting to learn about email lists. Is it better to create my own software for gathering emails in my own database or use some of the providers like mailchimp and aweber. And is there an option to migrate the list from one of these providers if I decide so?

If starting out I would use a good autoresponder...much easier. They are def worth it. Most will allow you to import you lists...BUT they may require them to opt in again.

I was asking about exporting

Ahhh sorry!! Yes you can usually export right to a excel file