1) LTE is a completely different technology compared to Evdo rev A or Verizon "3G" so signal strength is going to be completely different to begin with. LTE Verizon edition isn't really compatible with other carrier lte networks so its not likely to roam on another lte carrier. That's why you have to select the LTE carrier at point of sale.
2) just because lte is available in your area doesn't necessarily mean that it's collocated with a 3G tower so again your lte performance may be coming from a different tower than your 3G service.
3) I'm having the same problem in midtown manhattan. I had a razr maxx and replaced it 5 times for instability... Just using it then wham... No service... Then full service after 30 seconds or a toggle with airplane mode. No connectivity is worse than slow connectivity.
I now have an iPhone 5 and yes it's more stable in manhattan but often with 1 bar. Yes 1 bar is a lot faster than 3G and frustrating o. Do I get full LTE coverage... You betcha.. Is it better than other lte coverage... I highly believe it. Verizon does an excellent job with its network because its it's hallmark. Without reliability then to a lower cost carrier. Just imagine building a national network over night without having a backward compatible technology.
Will I put up with it yes. Does and Verizon know? Yes... Will I replace it... No... Is this new technology... Yes... Is it better... Yes... Is it perfect... Not at all. It's early adoption. Learn to love it.