Let me preface this with a note:  I have just gone 6 days without electricity at my home and office, so I am a bit edgy.

Toni, I understand your concern.  However, I am offended that after all I have done for the abstracting community you feel that I have "stabbed them in the back."  I have invested well over $100,000 in this site and we have annual operating expenses of approximately $70,000.  I have provided an open forum for all abstractors to communicate, which has lead to the formation of a much needed national association  - NALTEA.  I have provided a place for you, and all abstractors, to market your services FOR FREE.  I have hired a full-time journalist to provide industry news and information to keep you all abreast of what is going on in the industry.  Who else has done this much for the abstracting community?

We have over 7,400 registered users and over 3,300 companies listed in our directory.  It would not be possible to screen every company on the basis that some may object to their listing.  We have always maintained an open site, allowing the entire industry to participate. 

There are a variety of companies listed in the Source of Title directory.  It is ultimately up to the client to decide from whom they will purchase services.  Personally, I don't think on-line searching is a good thing for the clients, and I have stated that many times.  However, it is not my decision to make and it is not in the "open spirit" of Source of Title.

If you, me, or anyone else, is losing clients to on-line searching the issue should be addressed with them.  Like it or not, the abstractors must compete with this expanding technology.  Source of Title didn't create it and we don't endorse it, but these companies are a part of the industry and they have as much right to participate here as anyone.

Regards,
Robert A. Franco
SOURCE OF TITLE