Search alone is possible; search with support is often faster, kinder, and more discreet. Agencies earn their fee by compressing risk—on both sides of the door.
For families
Structured intake, verified work history, reference discipline, and crisis mediation when offers wobble. You still choose your hire; you are not single-threaded through anonymous boards.
For caregivers
Advocacy on compensation, clearer job scopes, and introductions that match your non-negotiables. Less time ghosted; more time in homes that fit.
Fit over volume
Boutique teams may present fewer résumés—but each should be defensible. That is the trade well-run agencies make.