What Is a Loan Signing Agent?

A loan signing agent is a specially trained notary who handles real estate transactions. I work with title companies, escrow companies, and lenders to make sure your closing documents are signed correctly and returned on time.

My job is to facilitate the signing, not to provide legal or financial advice. I make sure documents are signed, dated, and notarized properly so your closing stays on schedule.

The Documents You’ll Sign

A typical real estate closing package includes:

The Note: This is your promise to repay the loan. It includes the loan amount, interest rate, and payment terms.

The Deed of Trust or Mortgage: This document gives the lender a security interest in the property. If you don’t pay, the lender can foreclose.

Closing Disclosure: A detailed breakdown of all costs, fees, and the final loan terms. Review this carefully.

Title Documents: Depending on whether you’re buying or refinancing, you’ll sign documents related to the property title.

Additional Disclosures: Various federal and state-required disclosures about the loan, property, and transaction.

Before the Signing Appointment

Review Your Closing Disclosure: You should receive your Closing Disclosure at least three business days before closing. Review it carefully and ask your lender about anything you don’t understand.

Gather Required Items: Bring your government-issued photo ID and any cashier’s checks or wire transfer confirmations for funds needed at closing.

Clear Your Schedule: Plan for the appointment to take 45-60 minutes. Don’t schedule it right before another commitment.

Choose Your Location: I can meet you at your home, office, or another convenient location. Pick somewhere quiet where we can review documents without interruptions.

Ask Questions in Advance: If you have questions about the loan terms or closing costs, contact your lender before the signing. I can explain what documents do, but I cannot give financial or legal advice.

During the Signing

I’ll Walk You Through Each Document: I explain what each document is and where you need to sign, date, or initial. I’ll point out important sections like the loan amount, interest rate, and monthly payment.

Take Your Time: Don’t feel rushed. Read anything you want to review more carefully. This is a major financial commitment.

Ask Questions: If something doesn’t make sense or doesn’t match what you expected, stop and contact your lender or title company before signing.

Sign Where Indicated: I’ll show you exactly where to sign, date, and initial. Make sure your signatures are consistent throughout the package.

Notarization: I’ll notarize the documents that require notarization and apply my seal.

After the Signing

I Return the Documents: I scan and return the signed documents to the title company immediately, typically within a few hours of our appointment.

You Get Copies: You’ll receive copies of your signed documents for your records.

Funding Happens: Once the title company receives and reviews the documents, they coordinate with the lender to fund the loan.

Recording: The deed and other documents are recorded with the county. You’ll receive final recorded copies from the title company.

Common Questions

Can I ask you questions about the loan terms? I can explain what a document is and point out key information, but I cannot give financial advice or explain specific loan terms. Direct those questions to your lender.

What if I find an error in the documents? Stop signing and contact the title company immediately. Errors need to be corrected before you sign.

Do I need to have my spouse present? If your spouse is on the loan or title, yes. Check with your title company about who needs to be at the signing.

What if I change my mind after signing? For refinances on your primary residence, you have a three-day right of rescission. For purchases, there’s typically no right to cancel after signing.

When can I move in or access my funds? For purchases, usually after the loan funds and documents record. For refinances, after the rescission period ends. Your title company will give you specific timing.

Why Use a Professional Signing Agent

Using a trained loan signing agent ensures:

• Documents are signed correctly the first time

• Your closing stays on schedule

• Notarizations are completed properly

• Documents are returned promptly to the title company

• You have a professional facilitator guiding you through the process