I would agree EXCEPT it does not take more time to get copies. Running the search, it takes LESS time to have the copies available for when you do the write-up. We all want to make as much as possible on a search, but most of my clients make it clear that they will pay for the actual courthouse cost of copies only -- and I don't blame them. Copies should not be a profit point.
AND THAT STATEMENT APPLIES TO THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OFFICES, TOO! it does NOT cost the ROD $1 (or more) per page for us to print out a copy. The ROD offices are supposed to be paid for by the recording fees and in some states/counties, by such things as delinquent property tax sales and even part of the property taxes paid. For these offices to make a profit off of copies is just not right. I understand they're in a financial bind, but these are public records. We should be able to make a copy at their cost ESPECIALLY when they don't have to life a finger. I even replace the paper in the printers at my courthouses.
I know that a group (lawyers maybe?) sued Ohio over just such a thing -- and won. Now copies range from 10 cents a copy to $2.50 (where the Register of Deeds will not let anyone make their own copies -- there's a way around everything, ya know)?
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