Jay

I am sorry...but I think you entirely miss the point.  First of all, no one has to give up their existing clientele.  Why would they have to?  A number of you out there are already title insurers...and no, I am not talking about underwriting.  That is an entirely different ballgame.  And I am NOT talking about becoming a VM.  I am talking about a co-operative set up owned and operated by the title professionals who are indiependently operating now.  Becoming a co-operative member doesn't necessary demand exclusivity.  I recognize that NALTEA is a new organization but I also know that in its current state - even with 1,000 members - it really doesn't offer much in return.  Group pressure? Sure, but to what outcome? And how long will it take to make a difference?  Most of us are wanting to survive NOW and we want to make an impact NOW.  For something of this nature, I would be more than willing to step up and help make it happen.  And I think a lot of other people would too.   I would be willing to invest funds in a venture that MAY have a return (or loss) that I am willing to accept.  I think if you want commitment to something - you have to offer results. 

You talk about capital...what kind of capital does it take to do research? I am talking about the kind of research for each states requirements...about the kind of research that requires knocking on doors occasionally.  Marketing is all about reaching the National lenders..the title underwriters who acquire National accounts....we are talking National here.  Labor is capital.  We all invest that in our company everyday. 

I never meant to imply that the quality of people in NALTEA currently was lacking.  That thought never crossed my mind  What I was referring to was attracting more experienced and committed individuals.  I don't know about everyone else, but I really don't think attending conferences that only reinforce the fear of online searching takeovers is beneficial to anyone.

I guess the bottom line is....just like when a person opens their doors for the first time.  Are you willing to take the risk?  In this case, you would have everything to gain and nothing to lose.  Unless you are currently a VM I guess.  NALTEA may become competition for you.  But as independents, we already are where we are.  Having an organization to become a co-operative member of that may have significant returns based on labor input seemed to me to be an opportunity - not a liability.

Why am I no longer a member of NALTEA?  Because it appeared to me to be gaining no ground and I can't possibly think my input would have mattered one way or the other.  Now, on the other hand - if NALTEA were the entity charging the $500-600 premium for title insurance...and the money left after paying the abstractor, etc  went into a pot that at the end of the year went toward the co-operative members and/or future growth of NALTEA ~ the possibilities are endless. 

It was just a thought....

Ellen