It is unfair when signing companies put out an opportunity as a refi when it is actually a CEMA. You’re basing your counter fee on a straight refi and then you go to print the documents and there’s 211 pages. I’ve asked for additional print fees but they should be stating “CEMA” at the get go. I should not have to be put in a position to ask for more later.
Why is a CEMA tougher than a refi? I base fees on up to 150 pages. I don’t lower prices when I get something less than that. Works for me.
Ask up front ..live and learn
Somewhat agree with johnsonps306. Most standard refis are around 130 pages. HELOCs and HELs are usually a lower page count, but not by much.
My fee schedule is based on taking into account most possible add-on scenarios. That includes large packages, scan backs, Spanish required, etc. The only variable for me is distance because I do cover a large territory.
For those unfamiliar with CEMA loans:
New York CEMA loans: Everything to know | Rocket Mortgage
When quoting your services, keep in mind that size of package is usually dependent on lender and title company. For example, Bank of America, United Wholesale and Sun West purchase and refi packages are large packages. Old Republic Title has large packages because of instructions and definitions. Combine UW and ORTC and you’ll end up with a package of 200+ pages. On the other hand, Rocket Close with Rocket Mortgage or most credit union loans are usually small packages (around 100 pages or less). Discover, Union Bank and Charles Schwab are usually on the smaller side.
What will add to packages are VA/FHA loans and trusts. Also, if there are more than 1 signer and they are not a married couple, most lenders will have the same docs for each of them individually or at least a separate signature page for each. In other words, a CD for each, a 1003 for each, a DOT signature page for each, a E&O/Compliance for each, a RTC (primary residence refi only) for each, etc.
Large packages means you’ll be using more of your paper and toner, more wear and tear on your equipment, more of your time to print and make sure it all printed correctly (BEFORE you leave for your appointment) then more time with signers to present and notarize and to review for errors and omissions BEFORE you leave the signing table. And then, something else to keep in mind … While you’re printing and reviewing, you’re also using your electricity and internet/WiFi. Do you take your utilities into account when quoting and also when you prepare your taxes?
There are MANY reasons why my fees are what they are! 
It’s not tougher than a refi. It takes more paper, more time to sign, more time to scan back. Standard refis like you say are up to 150 pages. Anything more than 175 pages should always incur an additional fee, at least here in my neck of the woods. Unfortunately, you’re not aware of the page count until you get the package but if they tell you, it’s a CEMA you automatically know it’s closer to 200 or over.
I just realized I put 111 pages - it was 211 pages - thus the confusion. Sorry!!
Oh, I usually ask for a bump on anything that large for sure. The last time I did they said we’ll re-assign and I said okay.
Then they called back and asked if I was still available and I told them a new fee. Some schedulers are not great LOL.
Today is a red letter day everything is under 40 pages.