I disagree Alix.  It takes us MORE time to do a search when the client asks for copies of everything.  We write out all of the information on our search forms, even if we get copies.  So, the time it takes to pull books, take them apart, copy the pages, and put the book back to together, is EXTRA time we spend on the search.  Perhaps it is a bit less if they are imaged and printable - but if they are, they are available online.  If they are available online, and the client doesn't want to pay us to get them, they can get them themselves for free (they don't, because they know it takes time, and time is money).   

When I was a title agent, I hated searches that were nothing more than a list of volumes and pages with attached copies.  I wondered if the searcher even really looked at them, or just started copying everything they found in the index.  And, when I'm examining a search, and typing a commitment for example, I would rather not have to flip through 20 copies to find the information I need.  I want to see it all written out in an orderly report. 

I guess not all searches are created equal - and I guess if most people are just listing volumes and pages and providing copies of everything, that would explain why clients always think we can do the job cheaper. 

In my opinion, a list of volumes and pages with a bunch of copies should not be called a "search" it should be called a "do-it-yourself search kit**."  It comes with all the parts, but you get to put it together yourself.  ;-)

Best,
Robert A. Franco
SOURCE OF TITLE

** some assembly required!