The key point
Confirm availability before making plans.
A remote notarization is one part of a closing. Ask the team which documents, participants and approvals are involved before assuming the entire transaction can be completed online.
Three arrangements to discuss
- In-person signing
- Meet at the agreed location to review and sign the required documents. Confirm who needs to attend and what identification to bring.
- Hybrid eClosing
- Some documents may be signed electronically, while others require an in-person signature. Ask which steps happen before the appointment.
- Remote online notarization
- The signer and online notary meet in a live audio-video session. Identity verification and technology requirements are part of the process.
Source: Florida Department of State: remote online notarization
Ask these questions early.
Is this arrangement available for my file?
Have the closing team confirm the documents and any lender or other approval requirements.
Where will each person be?
Discuss travel, time zones and anyone signing in a representative capacity before scheduling.
What identification and equipment are needed?
Ask for the specific platform instructions and whether a camera, microphone or advance identity check is required.
What remains outside the session?
Confirm any paper documents, separate signatures, delivery requirements or remaining funding steps.
Plan the appointment, including a backup.
Set aside time to review documents and ask questions. If an online session is proposed, find out how to test the connection and who can help if identity verification or technology does not work.
Confirm any additional fees, the expected sequence and an alternative signing arrangement. Do not assume that a video call, an electronic signature and a notarized document are interchangeable.
Prepare for closing dayTell us what you need to arrange.
Start with the type of transaction, target date and your question about signing. The team can discuss the next step for your file. Keep identity documents and private financial details out of the general contact form and website chat.
Discuss your signing arrangementsGeneral educational information. Your transaction documents and the guidance of your closing team, lender and advisers determine what applies to your file.