Common questions
What people ask before they book.
- How much does professional genealogy actually cost? +
- Industry-wide, projects run from about $1,000 for a focused brick-wall question up to $25,000 for multi-line, narrative family histories. Our packages span $1,400 to $8,900, with hourly add-ons. Every engagement is quoted up front as a flat fee — no surprises.
- How long will my project take? +
- Most projects deliver in 8–16 weeks. Archive response times, overseas record requests, and DNA match outreach can all extend that. We give a realistic timeline in the written proposal before you commit.
- Do I need to take a DNA test first? +
- Not necessarily. Many projects are pure documentary research. If DNA is relevant — adoptee searches, unknown parentage, a stubborn brick wall — we’ll discuss that on the consult call. AncestryDNA is usually the most useful test to start with.
- What if you don’t find what I’m hoping for? +
- Genealogy is honest work — sometimes the records don’t survive, or they tell a different story than the one in the family. You always receive a complete report of what was found, what was searched, and what conclusions the evidence does and doesn’t support. Unused research hours are refunded.
- Will you build my tree on Ancestry / FamilySearch? +
- Yes. Every project includes a digital tree delivered as a GEDCOM file and, on request, built into your Ancestry or FamilySearch account with full source citations.
- Can I gift research as a present? +
- Often, yes — and it makes a wonderful gift. We work with the recipient on the consult call to make sure the project genuinely fits what they’d want. Gift certificates are available in any amount.
- Do you travel to archives? +
- Yes, when it’s warranted. Travel-required research (state archives, county courthouses, overseas repositories) is quoted separately. Most U.S. records can now be accessed remotely or by paid lookup.
- Is my family information kept private? +
- Always. Findings, photographs, and DNA data are confidential. Nothing is shared, posted, or used as a case study without explicit written permission.
Still wondering whether your question fits?
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