Real estate transactions move fast — and notarization is one of the final (and most important) steps before closing. Today, homebuyers, sellers, and investors can choose between traditional in-person notarization or the newer, highly convenient Remote Online Notarization (RON).
But which one is right for your situation?
Here’s a clear comparison to help you choose the best notarization method for your real estate documents.
What Is an Online Real Estate Notary?
An online real estate notary, also known as Remote Online Notarization (RON), allows you to complete a notarization from anywhere using:
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A secure video platform
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Digital ID verification
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Electronic signatures
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A digital notary seal
The entire session is recorded, and your document becomes instantly available for download.
What Is an In-Person Real Estate Notary?
An in-person notary meets you physically — at a title office, at home, at your workplace, or through a mobile notary service.
You sign with wet ink, and the notary applies a physical stamp and signature.
This is the traditional and most widely accepted method for real estate closings.
Online Notary vs. In-Person Notary: Side-by-Side Comparison
1. Convenience
Online Notary (RON)
✔ Available 24/7
✔ No travel; sign from home, office, or abroad
✔ Perfect for out-of-state buyers or military members
In-Person Notary
✔ Preferred for large signing packages
✔ Ideal when parties prefer face-to-face communication
✔ Great for signers who aren’t tech-comfortable
Winner: Online Notary (for convenience)
2. Security & Verification
Online Notary
✔ Multi-step ID verification (credential analysis, biometric checks, KBA)
✔ Encrypted video recording for legal proof
✔ Time-stamped audit trail
In-Person Notary
✔ Physical ID check
✔ No video recording
✔ Notary journal entries for documentation
Winner: Online Notary (RON adds extra layers of digital security)
3. Acceptance by Lenders & Title Companies
Online Notary
✔ Accepted by many states and lenders
⚠ Still restricted in some counties or older systems
⚠ Some deeds require wet ink depending on jurisdiction
In-Person Notary
✔ Universally accepted
✔ Required for certain types of deeds in some states
Winner: In-Person (most universally accepted for all document types)
4. Type of Real Estate Documents
Suitable for Online Notarization:
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Seller affidavits
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Closing disclosures
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Loan forms
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Identity verifications
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POA for real estate (if lender approves)
Usually Requires In-Person:
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Certain state-specific deeds
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Documents needing multiple witnesses
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County offices that do not accept eRecording
Winner: Depends on the document type.
5. Cost
Online Notary
✔ Typically lower cost
✔ Flat fee per notarization
✔ No travel charges
In-Person Notary / Mobile Notary
✔ Varies by distance
✔ Travel fees apply for mobile visits
✔ Best for large document packages
Winner: Online Notary (generally more affordable)
6. Urgency & Timing
Online Notary
✔ Immediate availability
✔ Ideal for last-minute closings
In-Person Notary
✔ Appointment required
✔ Limited hours unless using a mobile notary
Winner: Online Notary
So… Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Online Real Estate Notarization (RON) if you want:
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Maximum convenience
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Fast, last-minute notarizations
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Remote or international signing
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Enhanced digital security
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No travel or scheduling hassle
Choose In-Person Notarization if you need:
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Wet-ink signatures
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Witnesses (in states like FL, GA, SC)
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A large closing package reviewed in person
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A county that does NOT accept eRecording
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A traditional face-to-face closing experience
Final Thoughts
Both online and in-person notarization are safe, legal, and effective — but the right choice depends on your county requirements, lender preferences, and personal comfort level.
At Looking Glass Runners Notary, we offer both:
✨ Remote Online Notarization (RON)
✨ Mobile and In-Person Real Estate Closings
…so you can close on your property your way.
