$125 Title Search Fee Upfront? Is this the norm?

[Kim Miller]

Hi,

I tried to post this earlier, but I guess it didn't go through. I can't seem to find the post anywhere. So I hope this isn't a duplicate post.

But anyway, I spoke with a young lady today at an investor-friendly title company here in Houston, TX today and she told me that I would have to pay upfront a $125 for title searches. If I close on a property then the fee would be given back to me at closing, otherwise they keep the money if I don't close on the deal.

I'm new to wholesaling and am working with very limited funds right now. I'm aware that a title search is not required, but in order for me to move forward with any deal, I'd definitely want to know what's going on with the property first.

Can someone please give me some suggestions on how to go about this? Should I contact other title companies or do they all work the same way?

Thanks!