Aid packages at private colleges vary because the Federal Methodology does not restrict how they dispense their own money. Even though institutional methodologies do vary from college to college, all schools tract Federal Methodology closely. The house doesn't count. See Myth 5. I'm mentioning this twice, because it confuses almost all parents.
Most private colleges do count the house before they'll give out their own money.
That's how they count the house. Financial aid is part of growing up, the student should do it. Not to mention studying for SATs, opening voluminous mail from colleges, and trying to figure out what to do with his life. Even if your student is destined for a doctorate in accountancy, do it yourself. You know the intricacies of family finances, and you know your hopes and dreams for retirement.