Check out the video on my YouTube channel HERE.
I’ve been helping people through adoption for 30 years, and these are the three things that cause the most problems—not because they’re impossible, but because nobody explains how they actually work.
Pitfall #1: Paperwork Mistakes
There’s a lot of paperwork in adoption. Like, a truly impressive amount. And small mistakes can slow everything down or send you back to square one.
My advice? Triple-check everything before you submit it. I know it sounds basic, but you’d be surprised how often this one step saves people months of delays.
Here’s what helps: Break it into smaller chunks. Use a checklist. Have someone else review it before you hit submit. Tedious? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.
Pitfall #2: Choosing the Wrong Professional
This is a big one. Do your homework before you commit to an agency or attorney, because switching midstream is a mess you don’t want to deal with.
Look for professionals who are transparent, responsive, and have a track record you can verify. Read reviews. Ask tough questions upfront. Get specific answers about their process, their timeline, and what happens if things don’t go as planned.
A little extra research now can save you a lot of wasted time, money, and heartache later.
Pitfall #3: The Home Study Panic
Let’s clear something up: the home study is not a test of whether you’re perfect enough to parent.
The goal is to make sure your home is safe and that you understand what you’re getting into. That’s it.
You don’t need a spotless house or a picture-perfect family. You need working smoke detectors, a plan for childcare, and honesty about your life. Be yourself. We’re looking for real, loving people—not people who can fake perfection for an afternoon.
Stay tuned for my next blog, where I’ll tackle the hot topic of whether an adoption agency is worth the investment. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it!
Want to know how to avoid these pitfalls from the start?
I have a free training on how to adopt a baby more quickly—without wasting your time, stressing yourself out completely, or draining your bank account.
Ready to start your adoption journey or just need someone to answer your million questions? Reach out to Adoption & Beyond – we’ve got you.
This blog post is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Our services are not financial, business, or legal advice. The information presented here is not a guarantee that you will obtain any results or earn any money using our content. Adoption & Beyond, Inc. owns all copyrights to the materials presented here unless otherwise noted. Open adoption may not be available or legally enforceable in all states, as laws regarding Post Adoption Contact Agreements (PACAs) vary. Make sure you check with your agency and lawyer.
