All valid points.  I just wanted to a share my experience.

However, can I offer a counter point of view and not seem contradictory?  The "stiffers" are not always India/foreign companies.  When I was new to this, a company, Flagship Title I believe, did get the better part of me.  It was a US company based in VA if I am not mistaken.  And, perhaps more importantly, just because a company has bad reviews doesn't mean it isn't a reputable company.  Several companies that use me have at one time or another been labeled as a non-payer on her that I have dome work for since the early 2000's.

I feel I am pretty diligent when it comes to new customers.  Of all of the checks you cited, the only I haven't done is the Patriot Act Searches.  Thanks for the suggestion and your input. 

 Stay safe and I wish you health and continued success ~ Greg