Yes... we all have different customs. I don't look at it as searching an extra "name." We don't search "names," really. We search the "title." It is our responsibility to show the status of title and if a potential buyer is subject to lien that attaches to after-acquired property - it definitely impacts the status of title.
When we do searches, we focus on what the client needs to insure title. That is why I think it is so important for abstractors to understand title insurance and the coverage extended by a title insurance policy. Unfortunately, too many abstractors don't have a clue! Although that doesn't prohibit an abstractor from charging extra for some things, I think a basic search fee should cover "all matters" that affect title - perhaps limited by the clients chosen duration of the search. For example, if the client only requests a current owner, encumbrances from prior owners wouldn't be shown (they accept that risk when the decide to insure on a current owner). But, after-acquired liens definitely affect all searches of any duration.
Basically, think about your liability. If you are provided with a buyer's name and don't run it because your client doesn't "pay extra," you could be in for an E&O claim. If you return a report that fails to include a lien that you should have found, you are probably going to be liable for the claim.
Anyway, that is my take on it. I'm sure there are a lot of other opinions out there.
Best,
Robert A. Franco
SOURCE OF TITLE
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