Mail Away Closing Tips

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The frequency of mail-away closings continues to increase. In the real estate industry, when a buyer or seller completes a transaction while away from the closing location, it is known as a mail-away closing. These closings have become so common that it's now unusual for buyers and sellers to ever meet in person, communicate directly, or even sit together at the closing table.
While mail-away closings are convenient, they require a little extra planning. If you're involved in a transaction that requires closing documents to be signed remotely, the following tips can help prevent unnecessary delays.
Notify Your Closing Agent EarlyIf the borrower, buyer, or seller will be out of town on the scheduled closing date, notify the closing agent as soon as possible. Early notice allows the closing team enough time to coordinate the preparation, delivery, and return of the closing documents.
Use a Qualified Notary Signing AgentChoose a Certified Notary Signing Agent (NSA) who specializes in real estate and loan document signings. These professionals are trained to properly execute mortgage and title documents.
While many shipping stores offer basic notary services, their notaries are often not trained in loan document signings. Using an inexperienced notary can result in errors that may delay funding or require documents to be re-signed.
Ask About Early SigningNot every lender permits documents to be signed before the scheduled closing date. If your travel plans require signing early, check with your closing agent or lender to determine whether early signing is allowed.
Know Your State's Witness RequirementsSome states require one or more witnesses in addition to the notary for documents that will be recorded. Be sure to have the required witnesses present at your appointment.
Witness Requirements by State

• Connecticut: Two witnesses required (one witness may also be the notary)
  
• Florida: Two witnesses required (one witness may also be the notary)
  
• Georgia: One witness required (the witness cannot be the notary)
  
• Louisiana: Two witnesses required (neither witness may be the notary)
  
• South Carolina: Two witnesses required (one witness may also be the notary)
  

If you're unsure whether your documents require witnesses, ask your closing agent before your appointment.
Don't Hesitate to Ask QuestionsIf you have questions during the signing, call your closing company. Their contact information is typically included on the instruction sheet in your loan package.
​Your closing team would much rather take a few minutes to walk you through the process than have to correct mistakes later. Asking questions during the signing can help ensure your documents are completed accurately the first time, keeping your closing on schedule. With a little preparation and the right professionals by your side, a mail-away closing can be just as smooth, secure, and efficient as signing at the closing table.

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