We no longer provide commercials searches because of the prices that the big guy wants.  I've stated in here before that we used to charge a lot compared to our competitor.

I calculated the fee based upon the amount of the loan + hours to complete at $50.00.  So each fee was different. 

If you have a residential loan for $100,000 and you charge $50.  Does that mean that a commercial loan for $1,750,00 should have a charge of $100?  Are you kidding, NO WAY.  You'd be getting ripped off.

I would calculate something close to this (and then adjust based upon the actuals hours of research, client, ordering habit, nature of work (foreclosed / refinance), etc.  But it would look something like this:

Insurance               $850.00 (base) (calculating $50 per $100,000)
+
Research
& Man-Hours        $200.00 (4 Hours at $50.00 per hour)
+
Copies                   $100.00  (estimate - these can get pretty dirty)
=
Total                   $1,150.00

I'm now priced to high because others are doing it for $150.   But what happens when you get wrapped up in one that takes you 3 full days to complete.  3 days for $150. 

If you are in this research business you should understand how your clients bill for their services.  So get your hands on a title companies rate sheet.  Look at what they charge for their services.  Your attorney clients....you should know what their rates are, how much do they charge per hour? How much do they charge for their research?  Knowing that information is key to understanding when you are getting ripped off. 

Robb

And a Little Disclaimer:    The figures above were used solely for demonstration purposes and does not depict our actual fees and should not be used as a baseline for adjustment of your company fees.