What Happens If One Borrower Can’t Attend the Closing?
Real estate closings are carefully coordinated — but life happens. Illness, travel delays, military deployment, or work conflicts can prevent one borrower from attending the closing. The good news? A missed closing doesn’t always mean a canceled deal. There are legal options that may allow the transaction to move forward. Why Lenders Require All Borrowers […]
Why Real Estate Documents Must Be Signed in Blue Ink in Some States
If you’ve ever attended a real estate closing, you may have been told: “Please sign in blue ink only.”This instruction can feel arbitrary, but in many states and counties, blue ink signatures serve an important legal and practical purpose. Understanding why blue ink is required can help prevent document rejection, re-signs, and costly closing delays. […]
How Notaries Handle Last-Minute Real Estate Closings
Real estate closings don’t always go according to plan. Funding delays, document corrections, travel conflicts, or lender timing can turn a smooth transaction into a last-minute closing emergency. When time is tight, professional notaries play a critical role in keeping deals on track — without cutting legal corners. What Causes Last-Minute Real Estate Closings? Last-minute […]
Recording vs. Notarizing: Why They Are Not the Same Thing
Many people assume that once a document is notarized, it’s automatically “official” or recorded with the government. In reality, notarizing and recording are two completely different steps — and confusing them can lead to serious delays or legal issues. Understanding the difference helps ensure your documents are both properly executed and legally recognized. What Does […]
Why Initials Matter on Real Estate Documents
When signing real estate documents, most people focus on the final signature — but initials are just as important. Missing or incorrect initials are one of the most common reasons closing packages are delayed or rejected. Understanding why initials matter can help buyers and sellers avoid costly mistakes and ensure a smooth closing process. What […]
What Happens If a Seller Signs Before the Closing Date?
Real estate closings involve strict timelines, and signatures are a critical part of the process. Sellers often ask whether they can sign documents before the official closing date — especially when travel, work, or emergencies are involved. The short answer: sometimes it’s allowed — and sometimes it’s a serious problem.Understanding when early signing is acceptable […]
How Notaries Detect Real Estate Fraud Before a Sale Closes
Real estate fraud can derail a transaction, cost thousands of dollars, and leave buyers or sellers facing legal consequences. While title companies and lenders play key roles in fraud prevention, notaries are often the final safeguard before a sale closes. Understanding how notaries detect real estate fraud helps clients appreciate why notarization rules are strict […]
What Title Companies Look for in a Notary Signing
In real estate transactions, title companies rely heavily on notaries to ensure documents are executed accurately, legally, and on time. A single mistake during a signing can delay funding, derail a closing, or require costly re-signs. So what exactly do title companies look for in a notary signing? The answer goes far beyond just stamping […]
Why Property Deeds Are Rejected Even After Notarization
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that a notarized deed can still be rejected by a county recorder or clerk. While notarization is critical, it is only one part of what makes a property deed legally recordable. Understanding why deeds get rejected — even after notarization — can help buyers, sellers, heirs, and investors avoid […]