What Does a Loan Signing Agent Do? A Complete Guide

A loan signing agent plays a critical role in the mortgage closing process. As an independent contractor, a loan signing agent is responsible for meeting with borrowers to ensure real estate loan documents are properly executed and notarized so loans can be funded on schedule.

So what exactly does a loan signing agent do? Here is a complete overview of the loan signing agent’s duties and responsibilities:

Gather Loan Documents

The first responsibility of a loan signing agent is to pick up the loan document package from the title company, lender or signing service that hired them This package contains all the documents that require signatures, initials and notarization from the borrowers Typical documents include

• Promissory Note
• Mortgage or Deed of Trust
• Loan Disclosures
• Affidavits
• And more

The signing agent reviews the package to ensure no documents are missing and all pages are in order before the appointment, Having an organized document package is crucial for a smooth signing,

Contact Borrowers

Next, the signing agent reaches out to the borrowers to confirm the date, time and location of the signing appointment. Clear communication is vital to ensure borrowers know when and where to meet and what to bring with them (valid photo ID, glasses if needed, etc.).

Coordinating schedules and providing reminder calls/texts prevents borrowers from missing appointments and closing delays.

Conduct Signing Appointment

At the scheduled time, the signing agent meets with the borrowers to conduct the signing. The agent will:

• Set up: Arrange tables and chairs to allow for social distancing. Bring sanitized pens and masks if needed. Prepare document package, notary journal and camera for IDs.

• Introduce signing: Explain their role, overview the process and answer questions. Ensure borrowers have time to read documents.

• Guide signing: Walk borrowers page-by-page to identify signature/initial lines and key details without explaining contents.

• Notarize docs: Witness signatures, collect IDs and complete notarizations for each document.

• Wrap up: Recheck for errors, provide copies and return executed package to hiring company. Follow up with thank you note.

The signing agent maintains an organized, professional and friendly demeanor throughout to deliver an exceptional client experience. Proper preparation and communication creates a smooth signing appointment.

Handle Document Prep

Before appointments, signing agents may also be contracted to prep documents. Prepping tasks include:

• Printing docs in proper page order with signature tabs
• Filling in dates, names and details on documents
• Adding exhibit/attachment labels
• Organizing docs in folders or binding sets

Thorough document prep ensures properly compiled and complete packages to execute.

Provide Mobile Notary Services

Signing agents are able to offer mobile notary services outside of loan signings as well. Common mobile notarizations include:

• Affidavits
• Real estate deeds
• Powers of attorney
• Wills
• Contracts

Mobile notaries travel directly to clients to provide notarizations for important documents.

Market Services & Build Business

Signing agents operate as independent contractors responsible for finding their own clients and marketing services. Successful agents:

• Create websites, profiles and business cards

• Network with lenders, title companies and signing services

• Join industry associations like the National Notary Association

• Promote services through social media and ads

• Provide discounts and incentives to gain new clients

A loan signing agent must continually build their reputation and seek new contract opportunities.

Uphold Standards & Follow Best Practices

Reputable signing agents commit to high standards and follow best practices including:

• Maintaining notary commission: Keep active commission and required bonds/insurance. Renew on time.

• Honoring contracts: Always fulfill agreements and return docs on deadline. Avoid cancellations.

• Exceeding expectations: Go above-and-beyond to deliver 5-star service at every signing.

• Protecting consumer rights: Allow time for document review, provide copies and keep info private.

• Avoiding legal advice: Never explain “how” or “why” something is in loan docs. Refer questions to lender.

• Continuing education: Stay updated on laws and industry best practices through classes and resources.

By upholding high ethical and professional standards, signing agents build trust and gain loyal repeat clients.

Provide a Critical Service in Lending

When you look at all of these responsibilities, it becomes clear just how critical the loan signing agent’s role is in executing loans and enabling lenders to fund on time. Without these mobile notaries, the mortgage process would grind to a halt.

Signing agents provide the flexibility and availability lenders need to close loans efficiently. Their services save lenders, title companies and borrowers time and hassle.

While providing an important service, signing agents also enjoy flexible schedules, comfortable settings and meaningful interactions helping clients realize homeownership dreams.

If you’re interested in becoming a notary signing agent, the National Notary Association provides the education, resources and tools you need to build a successful mobile notary and signing business.