Quick Answer
Many real estate transactions can close remotely using a mobile notary, electronic document signing, mail-away signing, or remote online notarization (RON). The available options depend on state law, lender requirements, underwriting standards, and the type of documents being signed.
Real estate closings no longer require everyone to gather around a table. Remote closing options have expanded significantly, making it easier for buyers, sellers, and other parties to participate from different locations.
Mobile Notary
A mobile notary travels to the buyer's or seller's location of choice home, office, coffee shop, or elsewhere to notarize documents. This is one of the most common remote closing options and is available in most areas. The notary brings the paper documents, witnesses the signatures, and returns the signed package to the title or escrow company.
Mail-Away Signing
In a mail-away signing, documents are shipped to the signer, who signs them with a local notary and returns them. This option works well when the signer is in a location where mobile notary service is unavailable or when timing allows for shipping. However, the shipping time both directions must be factored into the closing timeline.
Electronic Signing
Some documents can be signed electronically using platforms like DocuSign or similar services. Electronic signing is widely used for many real estate documents, though certain documents such as the promissory note may have specific requirements depending on the lender and state law. Electronic signing can happen from anywhere with an internet connection.
Remote Online Notarization
Remote Online Notarization (RON) allows a commissioned notary to notarize eligible documents via approved audio-video technology without physical presence. For a full explanation, see What Is Remote Online Notarization?
What Can Limit Remote Closing?
Not every transaction is eligible for remote closing. Limitations may include:
- State law: Some states restrict or do not permit remote online notarization for certain document types
- Lender requirements: The lender may require wet signatures on specific documents
- Title company policy: The title or escrow company may have its own requirements for remote closings
- Document type: Some documents may need original signatures for recording in certain counties
- Timing: Mail-away signing adds shipping time that may not work for a tight closing schedule
Tell Your Title Company Early
If you need or prefer a remote closing, tell your title or escrow company as early as possible. Some options, such as RON, require advance setup. Others, such as mobile notary, need scheduling lead time. The earlier you communicate your needs, the more options are available.
Key Takeaway
Remote closing options include mobile notary, mail-away signing, electronic signing, and RON. Not every option is available for every transaction, so communicate your needs early and confirm what is possible with your title company and lender.
FAQs
Is a remote closing more expensive?
Costs vary. Mobile notary fees are typically modest. RON may have technology fees. Mail-away signing adds shipping costs. Ask your title company for a cost comparison before choosing your signing method.
Can both buyer and seller close remotely in the same transaction?
Yes, it is possible for both parties to close remotely, depending on the available methods and the requirements of the lender and title company. Each party's signing method can be arranged independently.