I do not regret adopting my daughter—not for an instant. But I regret coming into the experience with so much faith in the agencies and governments that brokered the arrangement that brought her into my life.

Valerie F.

Most people are scared away by lengthy documents with lots of terms and conditions. But the truth is that the terms and conditions are there for a reason...It’s best to have all of the terms of an agreement spelled out on the front end.

Industry Insider Scott K.

I don’t regret having the surgery...What I do regret is the way I went about having such a life-altering surgery...If I could do it again, I would have better researched my doctor.

Patricia M.

The first weeks were hard and my grandmothers made sure we were aware of their abandonment feelings. However, their passionate disdain transformed into a secretive fondness; then they asked us if they could go on the weekends.

Samantha M.

Make certain your work contract spells out clearly the remediation in place for damage to your property in the unfortunate event that it occurs.

Nate H.

A standard home inspection does not include an inspection of the sewer line...When purchasing an older home, request the seller give proof of a sewage line inspection and find out which material was used to construct the line.

Jackie F.

Hospital discharge staff and geriatric care physicians can provide immense support in selecting the appropriate level of care for a loved one as well as viable options. Still, it is important to be your own advocate.

Industry Insider Erin F.

I am so happy I didn't let my fears stop me from getting LASIK...I even woke up and looked at the alarm clock all by myself this morning, no need to ask my husband what time it was.

Andrea W.

Support your loved one through each change, and allow hospice to support you both. Hospice can be a tremendous resource for caretakers.

Kaylen J.

Had we interviewed realtors, researched their backgrounds and made an informed decision, we would likely be in a different place right now.

Joanna H.

The things that go wrong make your wedding even more memorable...What matters is how you deal with the problems, and that you're marrying the one you love.

Carrie H.

Know what you want and don't settle for less...my agent just didn't have the knowledge we needed.

Brian R.

The biggest mistake a buyer can make is not to ask for proof of the repairs or fail to have the property reinspected...If the work isn’t done adequately and you proceed to close on the property, you could now own the problem.

Industry Insider Dana B.

When we were told the staff all helped out with the patients, that everyone from administration to maintenance knew each patient's care plan, and that patients were considered family, we knew we'd fount the right place.

Stephanie V.

Based on the current market, and weighing the cost against the potential benefits, it is a wise investment to purchase an owner’s title insurance policy with every real estate transaction.

Industry Insider Scott K.

One of my worst nightmares had just occurred. I had never experienced a house fire and I had no idea what to do next. Fortunately, our insurance company was helpful and assigned us an adjuster immediately.

Rebecca B.

[Our real estate agent] offered to sweeten the deal by accepting a lower commission and represent both us and the buyer. Knowing what I know now, the equivalent of a submarine diving alarm should have sounded.

Curtis J.

Once our agent got involved, she streamlined the shopping process, walked us through each complicated step, and put us in touch with all the right professionals, including our mortgage broker.

Amber K.

Our relatives who were unfamiliar with international travel neglected to get documentation of their right to exit the U.S. and enter Italy...38 of our 112 guests missed the wedding because they didn't have passports in time.

Terrance J.

Escrows for property taxes & home insurance can pack a shocking wallop in terms of what the buyers must bring to the settlement...the bank often requires the buyer to contribute to escrows that accumulate with each monthly payment.

Industry Insider John C.

The process to get approved for adoption or foster care is intense...You will be called upon to answer personal questions that only the bottom of your soul can answer.

Elizabeth N.

My advice to others who are considering placing a loved one in any facility would be to simply be aware. Ask the toughest questions you can think of.

David T.

Avoid spending money on appraisals, home inspections, or any other expenses related to the home purchasing process until the mortgage loan officer informs you that all of your loan documentation has been submitted and approved.

Industry Insider Avon A.

There once were all these rules of etiquette that couples followed when planning a wedding with a strict format for the design of the wedding. Today, you can throw that rulebook out the window.

Industry Insider Erica M.