Prepare Your Clients for a Smooth Closing Day

At Negretes Notaries, we know that closing day is one of the most anticipated and important steps in the home-buying process. Whether you’re working with first-time buyers or seasoned homeowners, helping your clients be fully prepared ensures a smooth, stress-free experience. To avoid delays and last-minute issues, it’s essential to follow these simple yet crucial steps. Below is a checklist of items you can share with your clients to ensure they’re ready to close on time.

1. Send and Remind Clients to Review Their Documents Ahead of Time

Encourage your clients to review all the closing documents as soon as they receive them. Buyers and sellers alike should understand what they’re signing, so point out that they should review details like loan terms, closing costs, and other key information. This proactive step can prevent confusion or delays on the big day, ensuring everyone is on the same page.

2. Have Valid Forms of Identification Ready for the Notary

Clients should come prepared with valid forms of identification. For most notaries, this means a government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. It’s a simple step, but one that can cause significant delays if overlooked. Ensure your clients know what is needed so they’re not caught off guard.

3. Proceeds Procedures: Wire Instructions or Confirmation for Buyers and Sellers

For buyers, confirm that they have the proper wire instructions for the down payment and closing costs, or that they have already sent the wire confirmation. Sellers should either bring a voided check or have their wire instructions ready for any proceeds. A misstep here could cause delays in the final transfer of funds, so make sure everyone knows what to bring.

4. If a Second Witness is Required, Confirm with the Signer

In some cases, a second witness may be required. This often depends on state laws or the specifics of the closing transaction. Make sure your clients are aware and ask whether they’ll be providing the second witness or if one will be arranged by the notary (for an additional fee). Handling this detail early on can avoid last-minute scrambling.

5. Confirm Signing Location

It might seem straightforward, but confirming the exact signing location is vital. Whether the closing will take place at the title company, the buyer’s new home, or a notary office, make sure everyone knows where and when to meet. Clear communication about the location can avoid unnecessary stress on closing day.

6. Confirm All Non-Borrowing Spouses or Signers Will Be Present

If any non-borrowing spouses or additional signers are required, confirm ahead of time that they will be present at the closing. Missing signatures can lead to costly delays, and coordinating in advance can help avoid last-minute rushes to get everyone to the table.

By following these steps, your clients will be well-prepared for a seamless and successful closing day. At Negretes Notaries, we’re here to support you and your clients through this important milestone, ensuring everything goes smoothly from start to finish. Contact us today if you have any questions. We can be reached at (800) 782-2343.