Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why should I hire a genealogist?
A: Professional genealogists have the training and experience to produce results that meet high quality proof standards, giving you results that you can confidently share with family and friends, knowing that is based upon sound research.
Q: What if you don't have expertise in my research area?
A: We will refer you to someone who can help! Being members of the Association of Professional Genealogists, as well as other national genealogical societies, gives us a good network from which to recommend researchers.
Q: What does it cost to hire a researcher?
A: Costs will vary based upon the size of the project, but the structure is based upon an hourly fee for the researcher's time and creation of the documentation, plus any costs that a record repository might charge (such as a fee for ordering a birth record from the state, or the postage on a required self-addressed envelope sent to an archive).
Q: Will I know about costs ahead of time?
A; Absolutely! At the start of each project, a time estimate with hourly fees is presented and agreed with you. While research is in progress, if record orders are necessary, you will be notified about the need for an order and you can decide whether to give approval to proceed.
Q: Are there any discounts?
A: Yes, for seniors over 70, we offer reduced rates, and there are also 10% discounts for repeat clients.
Q: What happens if you don't find my ancestor/solve my brick wall?
A: Sometimes the records to answer your question are simply not available. Depending upon the area, records may have been lost, burned, or intentionally destroyed. In these cases, we will provide a detailed log of all of our research, including search terms, time periods, and record repositories. Should records later become available (you never know what's in someone's closet or attic!) then you will have a great starting point. In these cases, we will expect to be reimbursed for the researcher's time.