Adopt a Child - prices

It is very important for us to choose an agency that is experienced and VERY reliable. Quite honestly, we're very leary about beginning such an important process with a small, mom and pop type agency. On the other hand, I obviously don't want to spend an exorbitant amount of money. The fee structures we have received from our top choices have been very clear (which is helpful) and have made it easier for us to compare apples to apples.

For example: We contacted

and found that they charge duplicate fees-their fees and then additional fees for the accredited agency they work with. The cost of a toddler is about 21,500, excluding travel. We also checked into

and

, which even ran a few thousand more than that (I assume because of the accredition costs). IAG's fees didn't include travel, homestudy fees, pre or post placements, so where does that put us? Doesn't that seem like an aweful lot of 'padding'? Plus, on the IAG website, it says you have to travel to meet the director in PA personally, which is yet an additional cost. We also checked into

, which works with

and found their fees ran several thousands less than any of the above. Can someone PLEASE explain to me why there is such a huge difference in cost between these agencies?

http://www.adoptachild.org/messageboard/forum_posts.asp?TID=103&TPN=2&dlimit=1