Buying or selling a home can be exciting—but also logistically challenging, especially if you’re out of town, living in another state, or juggling a tight schedule. One of the most common questions we hear from clients is, “Do I have to be physically present for the real estate closing?” The good news? In many cases, you don’t.
Thanks to mobile notaries, power of attorney options, and even remote online notarization (RON), today’s real estate transactions are more flexible than ever. Here’s what you need to know.
Traditional Closings vs. Remote Closings
In a traditional closing, all parties—buyers, sellers, agents, and sometimes attorneys—meet at a title office or bank to sign documents. However, this can be inconvenient (or even impossible) if you’re relocating from another state, traveling, or investing from afar.
Remote or mobile closings remove that barrier. Instead of needing to be physically present, documents can be signed in front of a qualified notary at a location and time that works for you—or even online if state laws permit.
How Mobile Notary Closings Work
A mobile notary is a trained, certified professional who meets you wherever you are—at your home, office, or even a coffee shop. They bring the closing documents and guide you through each signature and notarization. This option is especially popular with:
- Military members
- Busy professionals
- Out-of-state investors
- Elderly clients or those with limited mobility
The notary ensures that the signing process follows all legal requirements, then returns the documents to the title company to complete the transaction.
What About Remote Online Notarization (RON)?
If you’re tech-savvy or working from another country or coast, Remote Online Notarization (RON) could be an option. You sign your documents online in a secure virtual session while a notary verifies your identity through video. As long as your state and the title company support it, this can be a fast, fully digital solution.
Do Sellers Also Need to Be There?
Sellers typically sign fewer documents than buyers, which makes remote options even more ideal for them. In fact, many sellers use mobile notary services to sign the deed and closing affidavit without ever setting foot in a title office.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Check your state laws. Some states may limit RON or require certain in-person notarizations.
- Coordinate with your title company. They’ll confirm which options are available and acceptable.
- Don’t wait until the last minute. Scheduling a mobile notary or setting up a remote session takes time—plan a few days ahead.
Ready to Close Without the Stress?
Whether you’re across the city or across the country, real estate closings don’t have to disrupt your schedule. At Notarizr by The Opal Group, we make it easy to sign when and where it works best for you—through trusted mobile notaries or secure online options.
📲 Contact us today to schedule a smooth, flexible real estate closing—without needing to be there in person.
