Yeah I've heard and seen guidelines as well then again guidelines and actual practice is where reality(rubber) meets the road.I've done 2-3 duplexes in Santa Ana, CA and we used 25%.

This then allows him to add those transparent numbers up to a total estimated hours, ( giving him the practice and confidence in his estimating ability)that can then be multiplied by the $30/hr add  in 10% For unforeseen issues and you then have a transparent number that you can both start to work from. 

@Felicia Dudley:  Below may help you get started:Stage 1: Educate Yourself on the Probate ProcessStep 1: Spend 1 Hour Reading about the Probate Process in Your Stateo If property does not go into a Trust then it goes to the Probate processo Google your state’s probate process and educate yourselfStep 2: Practice Explaining the Process to SomeoneStage 2: Get the Probate ListStep 1: Find Location of Probate Records at the County Courthouse or Town/City HallStep 2: Search for the Probate listings on the Computer, Day Book, or filesStep 3: If your courthouse has a computer system Record Volume and Page Numbers in Excel Step 4: Pull Volume & Page for more Detailed Information.

We partner with law enforcement and are actively involved with organizations in our industry that promote best practices.

IF it was a LEGITIMATE service the states would license the practice!  

I believe that everything takes practice; therefore, it is my intention to start small and to build locally to mitigate risks.

Best practice, IMO, is to have a RMLO make a determination of an exemption and squeeze that letter of opinion, attaching it to the note and buy the RMLO lunch, an honest one shouldn't hold you up for an opinion!

Legally, they probably aren't entitled to anything, but the practical problem remains as there are possible outcomes I cant foresee.

We're practically neighbors.....let me know if I can help you out as you make your way through the site.Brian

Obviously, this is unethical practice.