Toni,

I sympathize with your plight!  As the owner of four major title companies in NYS and an abstracting company, Countywide Abstract, Inc., not too mention I started in this industry nine years ago as a traveling abstractor, I understand what "on-line" service can do to ones bottom line!  However, I must agree with Mr. Franco.  Our country was founded on free enterprise and pursuit of freedom, both financially and personally.  What does it say to these "on-line" companies that it does not say to an up and coming abstractor regarding the right to begin and grow ones business. 

Our focus as abstractors, lenders, title agents, attorney's, etc., should not necessarily be placed on who is coming around the mountain, but the service, communication, loyalty and attention to detail we as business men and women strive to attain each and every day for our companies and our client(s).  Believe me, if your service and all that encompasses it is worthy, in addition to your vision and growth potential, your client(s) will remain loyal and look past the new kid on the block.  Remember, the grass is not always greener on the other side and from experience, sooner or later, those who jump ship, at times, realize just how important human communication and relationships are. 

Mr. Franco has provided an OUTSTANDING forum for our industry professionals to grow with.  We share with each other without fear of reprisal and learn a little bit along the way.  To close the door on someone due to competition is NOT wise, moral, ethical or a policy I would choose to associate myself or companies with.  Think of it like this:  what if your company was segregated and not allowed its membership or voice to be heard on SOT because of the toes you may be stepping on in the counties you cover?

SOT should be proud of what they have given this industry and the members herein.  I can only hope that it continues to grow and serve as the "shoulder to cry on" whenever needed.

JAMIE T. SHOEMAKER
Vice President, Corporate Development
Statewide Settlement, Inc.
jshoemaker@statewidesettlement.com
www.statewidesettlement.com