We used a referral service with all 3 of our adoptions. The one we used as NO UPFRONT FEES! Her fee was very low compared to others rest I've looked into. There are no fees due until a match is made or in some cases, until the baby is in your arms.
We were matched VERY quickly...our longest wait was about 2 months from time of registering until we held our baby.
I like referral services because the fees are MUCH less than facilitators. With facilatators they work with the Bmom, with referral services, they work with the agency or attorney assisting the Bmom. Once a match is made, the referral service is DONE, the Bmom continues working with her agency/attorney & you with yours. With a facilitator, they finish up the legal work, etc. They aren't legal to use in alot of states but a referral service is in most.
PM me if you'd like the name of the one we used. The ONLY one I recommend & trust.
Deb