In this episode you’ll learn what NOT to do when selecting an adoption agency. When you have a BIG life decision coming up – would you LOVE to know what common mistakes people have made when making that same decision? I say YES – absolutely!  Think about this: when you decide to move – sell your house and buy another. It’s a big decision – you need to think about where to move – when to move – if you have kids, are there good schools? Who can tell us what it’s like? You definitely want to do lots of research and then make your decision. So, why should it be any different when selecting an adoption agency or attorney to help you build your family? Today we are talking about the 7 common mistakes to avoid when selecting an adoption agency: 1. Not doing your homework. 2. Not getting enough references. 3. Choosing only based on what’s closest to you. 4. Choosing only based on cost (aka the cheapest). 5. Choosing only based on your home study agency. 6. Choosing based on advertised extremely short wait times. 7. Analysis Paralysis. There is no one right way to choose an adoption agency or attorney – but there are many wrong ways. Most hopeful adoptive families get overwhelmed with how to choose – and for good reason. There are over 2000 agencies and attorneys in the U.S. – so where do you start? Start by learning from others who’ve been there – those who’ve done what you want to do. Here’s a BIG myth about adoption: you have no control. Through 2 adoptions I’m here to say – you have more control than you think.  One huge control you have is being prepared. As with any big life decision – where to go to college, finding a job, buying a home – preparation is KEY for: 1. Boosting your confidence 2. Ability to achieve success 3. Minimizing risks (emotional, time and financial) OK – here is the breakdown of the 7 common mistakes to avoid when choosing an adoption agency: 1. Not doing your homework. This is the biggest mistake – signing an agreement to work with agency or an attorney before you do your homework. Not doing your homework can cause you to possibly: -Have to start over with another agency or attorney -Suffer financial loss -Suffer emotional stress -Delay your adoption process. You need to know exactly what the agency or attorney will do for you all throughout the process. I’ve heard of families not reading the fine print of the contract – or not understanding everything – then when something bad happens, like a failed match/placement – you can lose time and money. 3 Reasons why doing your homework is good a thing: 1. Birthparents. -They will have a better opportunity to build a great relationship with you because you’ve taken the time to understand what open adoption is and how that can help all of you. -If you learn about & see the birthparent perspective, it will help you all communicate better and build trust. -Check out Things I wish all adoptive parents knew this is a post by a birthmother, who graciously shared her opinions. 2. Agency/Attorney. -Able to better work with you if you understand the process. -You won’t feel like you have to have your hand held so much during your journey. 3. You – the hopeful adoptive mom and dad.  -Learning more = confident in the process – not surprised by things you cant control. -Learning more = confidence in your agency or attorney. -Learning more = reduce the possibility of making mistakes that cost you time, money and stress. ACTION: How to do your homework? InfantAdoptionGuide.