Finding the Right Professional Genealogist: Your Guide to Success

Why Professional Guidance Matters

Hiring a professional genealogist is similar to engaging other specialized professionals, such as a tax consultant or attorney. You need someone who understands your unique goals, meets deadlines and budgets, and possesses the expertise to help you uncover your family's story. Our team of experts is here to guide you through this journey with personalized attention and professional insight.

Setting Clear Objectives

Success begins with clarity. Before starting your genealogical research, consider:

• What specific ancestors or family lines are you researching?

• Are you looking to break through a particular "brick wall" in your research?

• Do you need assistance with specialized records (immigration, military, property)?

• Are you interested in DNA analysis integration with traditional research?

• Would you like your research compiled into a formal family history?

Not certain how to frame your objectives in genealogical terms? Our consultation services can help you transform your curiosity into clear, achievable research goals.

Finding the Right Specialist

Professional genealogists often develop expertise in specific areas:

• Geographic Specialization: Some researchers have deep knowledge of particular regions, their record systems, languages, and historical context

• Time Period Expertise: Colonial America, Victorian England, or post-WWII immigration research each require different methodologies

• Subject Matter Focus: DNA analysis, military records, property histories, or ethnic heritage research all benefit from specialized knowledge

Our service matches you with professionals whose expertise aligns precisely with your research needs. We maintain relationships with certified genealogists worldwide, eliminating the need for you to vet candidates yourself.

Evaluating Credentials and Experience

When assessing potential genealogists, consider:

• Professional experience and education in genealogical research

• Credentials such as certification from the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) or accreditation from ICAPGen

• Publication history in peer-reviewed journals or respected genealogical publications

• Experience with projects similar to yours

• Knowledge of relevant languages, paleography, or specialized methodologies

Our network includes only thoroughly vetted professionals who meet rigorous standards of expertise and ethics.

Understanding Fee Structures

Professional genealogical services typically follow one of these pricing models:

• Hourly Rates: Ranging from $30-$100+ depending on expertise level, project complexity, and location

• Package Pricing: Pre-defined service bundles with clear deliverables

• Project-Based Fees: Flat rates for specific outcomes like family narratives or presentations

Most projects also include reasonable expenses for records access, copying, and sometimes travel costs. Our service packages are transparently priced with no hidden fees, and include clearly defined deliverables.

Planning Your Timeline

Quality genealogical research requires adequate time:

• Record retrieval from archives may take weeks

• Analysis of complex family relationships demands careful consideration

• Writing and compiling reports or family histories is a detailed process

Be wary of promises for "instant" results. Discuss timeline expectations upfront, especially if you have a deadline for a family reunion or special occasion. Our project management approach provides regular updates and clear timelines.

Establishing Clear Communication

Before engaging services:

• Ensure your research goals are mutually understood

• Clarify communication expectations (frequency of updates, preferred methods)

• Establish understanding about any deliverables format

• Agree on copyright and publishing rights for research results

All our service agreements include written documentation of project scope, timeline expectations, and deliverables.

Your Next Steps

Starting your genealogical journey doesn't have to be overwhelming. Our team handles the complexity of finding the right expert for your specific needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover which of our service packages best suits your family history goals.

Let our professional genealogists unlock the stories of your ancestors while you focus on the joy of discovery.