Here in Columbia, SC, for those of us who search titles for attorneys (as a note, that is the only legal way we can do so in this state), we charge by the hour and add mileage and cost of copies.  My rate, currently, is $65.00 per hour, plus the foregoing.  My minimum charge is $65.00, plus costs.  So, as it stands now, I do not complain of my fees.  If the search is for commercial property, the fee is much higher on an hourly basis, also with a minimum.

However, in those states in which the title searches are not performed for attorneys, but rather for out-of-state title companies, I can feel your pain. 

Yes, I would like to see certification or licensing of abstractors, as there are too many out there who do not know what they are doing.  However, I have not met any in SC in this situation, due to our laws in this State.  If you don't know what you are doing, you will receive no business.  One MUST have a knowledge of the state's laws in order to perform the service accurately.