Due to the ongoing global health crisis, the entire home buying process has gone virtual…including the closing. Although it wasn’t uncommon to remotely sign documents before, nearly every step of a closing can now be completed from the comfort of your couch!
Everything You Should Know Before a Virtual Home Closing
New innovations have made virtual home closings easy, convenient, and safe. However, it’s crucial to plan ahead and ask plenty of questions about the process. Here’s everything you need to know before you tackle a virtual home closing in Ohio.
Keep your agent in the loop
Before you commit to a virtual closing, make sure to find out if your agent even offers them. Current events have forced many Realtors to provide enhanced closing services, so be sure to ask questions about what’s available and what isn’t.
Even if you’re only completing some steps of the closing remotely, be sure to keep your agent in the loop throughout the entire process. That way, they can plan ahead, answer any questions, tune in to video conferences, and prep your paperwork.
Determine how you want to close
Believe it or not, there are actually two different types of virtual closings: Remote Online Notarization (RON) eClosings and Hybrid eClosings. Both offer distinct advantages and drawbacks, so it’s important to determine which method is right for you.
RON eClosings are completed entirely online and don’t require any in-person interaction. However, you’ll want to plan ahead and make sure you can coordinate a video chat with your notary and agent. Hybrid eClosings still have some face-to-face meetings with a notary, but many documents can be signed online ahead of time.
Find a remote notary
Ohio is one of the few states that has offered online notarization since 2017, which makes it easy to navigate a home closing remotely. However, that doesn’t mean you can find a notary from just any website.
Currently, all remote notarizations have to be performed by a notary that is certified in Ohio. They must also be vetted by the Secretary of State’s Office, take an educational course, and pass a final test. If you’re not sure where to find a certified notary, your agent might have some recommendations!
Plan ahead for closing day
Once you’ve planned out your virtual closing, it’s time to start preparing for the big day. Your notary and agent will likely schedule a video conference with you, which will involve showing your identification, e-signing paperwork, dealing with the title company, and tying up any other loose ends.
Be sure review all documents before the video conference and have your ID and social security card on hand. You should also be in a well-lit room with good WiFi during the actual closing. If you have any questions for your lender, agent, or notary, it’s best to ask them ahead of time.
Ready to Schedule a Remote Closing?
Times may be tough, but it’s still possible to buy a home here in Piqua, Ohio! If you’re interested in making a move soon, just reach out to the Kathy Henne Team for more information. We have plenty of resources to help you navigate your virtual closing!