Starting Off on the Wrong Foot?

Becoming a loan signing agent is an exciting opportunity to grow your income and build a flexible career. But like any new venture, it comes with its share of challenges. Mistakes can cost you time, money, and credibility. For example, forgetting to notarize a key document could result in a delayed closing, frustrated clients, and potential damage to your reputation. The good news is these mistakes are entirely avoidable if you know what to watch out for. Let’s dive into the top five pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

Mistake #1: Skipping a Thorough Document Review

Rushing through loan documents can lead to errors like missing signatures or incorrect dates—mistakes that could delay the entire closing process.

How to Avoid It:

  • Take the time to carefully review every document before meeting with your client.
  • Create a checklist to ensure nothing gets overlooked, such as signatures, initials, and notary seals.

Insider Tip: Double-check critical documents like the Deed of Trust, Note, and Right to Cancel forms—these are the most common areas for errors because they contain critical information such as property details, loan terms, and borrower rights. Any inaccuracies or missing signatures can halt the closing process, leading to delays and dissatisfied clients.

Mistake #2: Not Knowing the Documents

Walking into a signing unprepared is a surefire way to undermine your confidence and lose the trust of your clients.

How to Avoid It:

  • Familiarize yourself with all the documents in a loan package. Understand their purpose and which sections require signatures or notarization.
  • Practice explaining key documents so you can guide clients confidently without giving legal advice.

Mistake #3: Forgetting to Confirm Appointment Details

Showing up at the wrong location or time can frustrate clients and harm your reputation.

How to Avoid It:

  • Always confirm the appointment details with your client and the signing service or title company at least 24 hours in advance. If they don’t respond, follow up with a phone call or email and have a backup plan in place, such as checking with the title agency or contacting the client directly.
  • Verify the address, time, and any special instructions to avoid last-minute surprises.

Mistake #4: Overlooking State-Specific Requirements

Each state has unique notarization laws, and failing to comply with them can result in rejected documents or legal issues.

How to Avoid It:

  • Stay up to date on Pennsylvania’s notary laws, including what is required for acknowledgments, affidavits, and remote notarizations. For example, recent updates now mandate additional identity verification steps for Remote Online Notarizations to enhance security.
  • Join professional organizations or online communities to stay informed about changes in regulations.

Pro Tip: Use ThePANotary.com as a resource to stay compliant with Pennsylvania’s notary requirements.

Mistake #5: Neglecting Professionalism

Your behavior and appearance matter just as much as your skills. For instance, showing up late or wearing overly casual attire, like jeans and sneakers, can make clients question your professionalism. Always aim to show yourself as polished and punctual to build trust and credibility. A lack of professionalism can leave a lasting negative impression.

How to Avoid It:

  • Dress appropriately for appointments—business casual is usually a safe bet.
  • Communicate clearly and courteously with clients and other parties involved.
  • Arrive on time, prepared, and with all necessary tools (stamp, journal, and ID).

Insider Tip: Always have backup supplies, such as extra pens and a portable charger, to handle unexpected issues.

Avoid These Pitfalls and Thrive

Mistakes are a natural part of learning, but by avoiding these common missteps, you’ll build a reputation as a reliable, knowledgeable, and professional loan signing agent.

Download Our Free Loan Signing Success Checklist to master every signing and keep your business growing!