We Do Closings Right

How to Prepare for your Closing

Closing day can be an exciting time for all parties involved, but it can also be stressful and overwhelming. To ensure a positive closing experience, here are some things you should be prepared for or expect:

• Confirmation Call -  The notary will call you to confirm the details of your closing such as closing type, date, time and location. 

• Document Review - Always make sure you review the documents or Closing Disclosure before the closing to address any issues that may arise such as errors and misspellings. Also, make sure your name on the documents matches the name on your ID to avoid the notary from not being able to notarize the documents. This could cause the closing to have to be rescheduled and the documents redrawn.

• Time - Allow 45 minutes - 1 hour for a purchase or refinance. Smaller packages generally take about 30 - 45 minutes and reverse mortgages can take over an hour because the packages tend to be very large.

• Home Prep - A cleared table or countertop, and sufficient lighting are needed to comfortably sign the documents. 

• ID - A valid unexpired State or Gov't issued ID is required to allow the notary to properly identify the signer (Acceptable forms of ID.) Some title companies may require two forms of ID for the USA Patriot Act form. As a second form of ID, a social security card, voter registration card or medical or car insurance card is generally accepted.

• ID Copies - Some title companies may request a copy of your ID to be returned with the documents.

• Pens - Depending on the state, the title company may request to have the documents signed in a specific color of ink, usually blue or black.

• Contact person - Make sure you have the loan officer or processor's contact information readily available in the event any questions arise during the closing process. The notary is not allowed to advise you because they are not lawyers and it would be considered the illegal practice of law.

• Wire transfer - If you have any proceeds coming back to you and want to have the funds wired directly to your bank account, you will need to have your routing and account number on hand.

• Other information - The signer may also need to have their homeowner's insurance information and the date they originally acquired the property if refinancing.

• Customer copies - The notary is generally required to leave a blank set of documents with the customer for their records. Some lenders will provide a signed copy of the documents via PDF instead, emailed through a secure link. The notary is not allowed to email the documents to you.

Remember, the closing process can be overwhelming, but with proper preparation and a little patience, it can be a smooth and positive experience.