As the client that is usually requesting commercial searches, I feel I need to post this.  I do ask for a flat fee.  Not because I want to screw you guys on price but because I can not go to my client after the search is complete and say....by the way....this will cost this mount of money and it is MUCH higher that what they think they are going to have to pay.  I only handle commercial searches so I do understand exactly what kind of searches these are.  I do understand the time ans frustration that goes into these.  When I am trying to get you guys to do these I usually like to go with the ones that don't do alot of residential and like or prefer to do the commercial work.  Makes both of our jobs that much easier.  I think that I am very fair in what I will pay someone to do these for me.