I've read this post also, and know this person.  Problem around here is all these newbie competitions have drove prices down, I know some abstractors that have went weeks without work cause the companies decided to use someone else.  Not all of us can stand around and wait for them to come back, we have bills to pay.  If you start calling all of these local companies that do work here in MI, you will get prices for last owner searchers from $35 to $50.  I don't know anyone around here that does them for more than that.  It is ridiculous I know, but I understand that some people have bills to pay.  I've talked to a few abstractors in this area and they are going to chance it by raising their fees again and sticking to them and then see what happens.  We can't be as fortunate as you with all the competition in this area.  Glad you've been able to stick to your guns.  To all those others, I have great understanding and my heart goes out to all of you in hopes of returned appropriate fees.  Marty Rose.