[mandirenee]

A homestudy is the 1st step. But, be very choiceful about the agency. Here are a few tips:

Alot of agencies can do both homestudy and matching/placing, some don't so ask those questions.

Research, Reserch, Research your agnecies. Ask tons of questions about the fees, when they are due, how birthmother expenses are handled, what do you get back in cases of failed matches or placements. Also ask for references - and call them.

Our choice is to not pay much money before placment. It's typical to pay for your homestudy upfront, typically 1/2 at the start and 1/2 when complete. Costs around $1-3,000 Then most agencies charge an application fee anywhere from $250 - thousands. Then some charge a fee at match (this is usually not refundable). Then a fee at placment. But some agencies make you pay in 1/3's so 1/3 at homstudy, 1/3 at match, 1/3 at placment and the 1st 2/3rd may not be refundable. Then some agencies make you pay 6 monthly payments of the full fee upfront. In other words they are all different. But you have to feel comfortable with the fees, refund policy,and administration of the funds.

Birthmother expenses is something you will have to address. These monies are governed by the states laws, but many states have no limits. I've talked to agencies that are willing to allow propspective adoptive parents to pay as much as $5-10,000 above the fees in living expenses. This is something you will have to decide, but these are typically lost if the placement fails. Personally, we are not willing to pay more than $1000 in expenses to help with maternity expenses. But, this is a personal/financial decision.

You may also want to understand the counseling they offer to expecting mothers and also how the advertise to expecting mothers.


Best of luck to you on your journey! It's not easy, there will be tears, stress, and loss - but once your baby is in your arms for good- you will know that is was worth it all!