Introduction
A real estate closing involves a lot of moving parts — and missing one small detail can delay your transaction. Whether you’re buying, selling, or signing on behalf of a client, showing up to your notarization appointment fully prepared ensures the process goes smoothly and your documents are accepted without issue.
Here’s your complete checklist for real estate notarization: what to bring, what to double-check, and how to avoid last-minute surprises.
1. Bring a Valid Government-Issued ID
A notary’s main duty is to verify your identity. That means your ID must be current, government-issued, and match the name on your documents.
✅ Acceptable forms of ID include:
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Driver’s license or state ID
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U.S. or foreign passport (if valid)
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Military ID
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Permanent resident (green) card
🚫 Not accepted:
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Expired IDs (in most states)
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Work badges, student IDs, or social media profiles
💡 Tip: If you recently changed your name (due to marriage, divorce, etc.), bring supporting documents such as a marriage certificate or court order to verify the change.
2. Bring the Complete Document(s)
The notary must see the entire document, not just the signature page.
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Ensure all pages are attached and in order.
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Do not sign before your appointment — you’ll sign in front of the notary.
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Check that there are no blank spaces or missing dates where information should be filled in.
If the document requires multiple signers, make sure everyone is present (or arrange for separate notarization sessions).
3. Know What Type of Notarization You Need
Different real estate documents require different types of notarizations:
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Acknowledgment: Confirms you voluntarily signed the document.
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Jurat: You swear or affirm that the contents are true.
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Oath or Affirmation: Common for affidavits or sworn statements.
If you’re unsure which one you need, check the notarial wording or ask your title company or attorney before your appointment.
4. Bring Any Required Witnesses
Some states or lenders require witnesses in addition to a notary, especially for documents like:
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Mortgage or Deed of Trust
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Quitclaim Deed
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Power of Attorney
Witness requirements vary by state.
If witnesses are needed, they must:
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Be adults (18+)
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Bring valid ID
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Not be named in or benefit from the document
🧾 Tip: Check with your title company or notary in advance — some mobile notaries can provide witnesses for a small fee.*
5. Bring Payment or Proof of Prepayment
If you’re using a mobile or online notary, confirm the service fee beforehand.
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Some notaries accept cash, card, or online payments.
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For Remote Online Notarization (RON), payment is usually processed through the secure platform before your session.
Keeping payment ready helps avoid delays and ensures your session is completed on time.
6. Bring Contact Information and Instructions
If your signing involves multiple parties (buyer, seller, lender, title officer), keep their contact information handy.
Also, bring any special instructions provided by:
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Your real estate agent
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Title or escrow company
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Attorney
This helps the notary complete the certificate exactly as required for your transaction.
7. Optional: Supporting Documents
Sometimes you’ll need extra paperwork for verification or to clarify details, such as:
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Marriage or divorce decrees
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Death certificates (for inherited property)
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Corporate resolutions (if signing on behalf of a business)
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Power of Attorney documents
Final Thoughts
A smooth notarization can make or break a real estate transaction. By arriving prepared — with valid ID, complete documents, and any witnesses — you save time, avoid re-signing, and ensure your paperwork is legally valid and ready for recording.
At Looking Glass Runners Notary, we make real estate notarization fast, secure, and stress-free — whether in person or online.
