I guess I'm not really clear on what your situation is, but your original question was whether I had any problem "selling a search for someone else to issue from?" As an abstractor, most of the searches I do (and sell) are for a client who will issue a title policy. Thus, I have no problem that at all.
Your question now seems to be whether I have a problem advising a client on how to correct title issues disclosed on a search. Depending on the defect that needs to be corrected, this could be construed as legal advice which as a non-attorney, I cannot offer. If their question deals more with procedural issues at the courthouse, I have no problem sharing any information I have with a client. On the other hand, if they are looking for a legal opinion as to whether a particular curative measure will "fix" the defect, I refer them to their underwriter because I am prohibited from giving legal advice.
We do searches that disclose the status of the title according to the public records. If the client has a follow up question relating to why we showed certain items on a search, I have no problem answering those questions and I do not charge a fee. Generally, our searches are self-explanatory, but sometimes they get complicated and the client may need some clarification. I don't think I should charge extra to help a client understand our notes. But, understanding the problem is usually the end of my input on the matter - I cannot advise them on the course of corrective action that is necessary to clear the title in most cases. That is an underwriting decision for their underwriter and I would not be comfortable guessing how they prefer to handle such issues.
Best,
Robert A. Franco
SOURCE OF TITLE
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