How to Prepare for a Smooth Loan Signing: A Checklist for Borrowers and Sellers
Introduction
Loan signings are one of the most important—and sometimes most stressful—parts of the home buying or selling process. The good news? With the right preparation, your signing can be quick, efficient, and error-free.
As a notary who specializes in real estate closings, I’ve seen how small oversights (like missing IDs or unprepared witnesses) can cause delays. This guide provides a simple checklist for borrowers and sellers so your loan signing goes smoothly from start to finish.
1. Bring Proper Identification
Your ID is the cornerstone of any notarization. Without it, the notary cannot proceed.
✅ Government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, state ID card)
✅ ID must be current (expired IDs may not be accepted)
✅ Make sure the name on your ID matches the name on your loan documents
Pro Tip: If your legal name has recently changed due to marriage or divorce, notify your lender/title company before the appointment.
2. Know If Witnesses Are Required
In some states, witnesses are required for deeds, mortgages, or certain loan documents.
✅ Confirm with your lender or title company if witnesses are needed
✅ Witnesses must be disinterested (not related to you, not benefiting from the transaction)
✅ Witnesses should bring valid ID as well
Pro Tip: Florida, for example, requires witnesses for deeds—but rules vary by state. Your notary will guide you, but it’s best to arrange witnesses in advance.
3. Have Funds Ready
If money is due at closing, make sure you know how it must be delivered.
✅ Certified check or cashier’s check (made out exactly as instructed)
✅ Wire transfer (confirm bank details directly with your title company—beware of wire fraud!)
✅ Avoid personal checks unless specifically approved
Pro Tip: Call your title company directly (using a trusted number) to verify wire instructions. Never rely solely on emailed instructions.
4. Review Your Documents in Advance (If Possible)
While you don’t need to understand every legal detail, being familiar with your paperwork can save time.
✅ Skim through your Closing Disclosure and note any questions
✅ Confirm loan terms (interest rate, payment amount, escrow info)
✅ Ask your lender questions before your signing appointment—your notary cannot explain terms
5. Choose the Right Environment
The right signing environment prevents distractions and errors.
✅ Quiet, well-lit space with a large table
✅ Stable internet connection (for remote/online signings)
✅ All signers and witnesses present and ready at the scheduled time
6. Communicate With Your Notary
Your notary is there to facilitate the signing, but communication helps everything run smoother.
✅ Confirm the date, time, and location of your appointment
✅ Communicate any changes in location, schedule, or cancellations as early as possible
✅ Let your notary know if you have special needs (mobility issues, disability accommodations)
✅ Ask about acceptable forms of payment for notary travel or service fees (if not already covered by title/lender)
Conclusion
A loan signing doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation—valid ID, witnesses, funds, and a clear plan—your closing can be completed in under an hour. Remember, your notary ensures the documents are executed properly, but it’s your preparation that makes the difference.
✅ Bring ID
✅ Arrange witnesses (if required)
✅ Have funds ready
✅ Review documents ahead of time
✅ Create a distraction-free environment
Follow this checklist, and your loan signing will be smooth, efficient, and stress-free.
