Signing Packet Appointment - Closings / Refi's

60-minute appointment: Signing documents for real estate title closing and mortgage refinance

Purpose

• Execute all required documents for the transfer of title and completion of a mortgage refinance.

• Verify identity, witness signatures, notarize where required, and collect appropriate fees.

Who should attend

• Borrower(s) — all individuals named on the loan and/or title.

• Seller(s) — if a concurrent sale is closing.

• Closing agent or escrow officer.

• Notary public (if not included with closing agent).

• Lender or lender representative (optional, for final questions).

• Real estate agents and attorneys (optional).

What to bring

• Government-issued photo ID for each signer (driver’s license, state ID, passport).

• Closing disclosure, loan documents, and any paperwork previously provided by lender or title company.

• Proof of homeowners insurance (declaration page).

• Payment for closing costs or cash-to-close (certified check or wire instructions provided by title company).

• Social Security number or documentation if requested.

• Any power of attorney documents if signing on behalf of another party (must be pre-approved by lender/title company).

Location and timing

• Appointment duration: 60 minutes. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to check in.

• If signing at a remote location or via mobile notary, confirm the exact address and ensure a quiet, well-lit space with valid ID available.

Process overview

1. Check-in and identity verification

   • Present photo ID.

   • Closing agent verifies names, signatures, and any required residency or citizenship documents.

2. Document review

   • Closing agent will briefly explain key documents: deed, mortgage note, deed of trust, promissory note, closing disclosure, escrow instructions, HUD-1 (if applicable), and any payoff statements.

   • Ask questions before signing. Complex legal explanations should be directed to your attorney or lender representative.

3. Signing

   • Signatures and initials will be required throughout multiple documents.

   • Follow instructions for where to sign and date; do not sign blank or incomplete forms.

   • Witnesses and/or notary will witness signature(s) as required.

4. Notarization and acknowledgments

   • Notary public will administer oaths and notarize documents.

   • Copies of signed and notarized documents are typically retained by the title company and lender; you will receive final copies within the timeframe specified by the title company or lender.

5. Payment and final steps

   • Provide certified check or confirm wire transfer for closing costs/cash-to-close.

   • Confirm payoff of existing mortgage(s) if applicable.

   • Title company records documents with the county recorder after funding and final approval.

Tips and reminders

• Read the closing disclosure and raise questions before signing; large changes at signing may delay closing.

• Electronic signatures may be used if previously arranged; confirm acceptable forms of ID and process.

• If funds are wired, follow the title company’s wire fraud prevention instructions exactly; verify wiring instructions by phone using a known good number.

• Notify the title company immediately if you cannot attend; rescheduling may delay your closing and incur additional fees.

• Keep copies of all signed documents for your records.

Common documents to expect

• Deed (grant deed or warranty deed)

• Mortgage or deed of trust

• Promissory note

• Closing disclosure or HUD-1 settlement statement

• Affidavits and declarations (e.g., occupancy affidavit)

• Power of attorney (if applicable)

• Payoff statements for existing liens

• Homeowner’s insurance declaration and flood insurance (if required)

• IRS tax forms (if applicable)

Outcome

• Title transferred/recorded and mortgage refinance executed upon funding and recordation.

• You will receive final closing documents and instructions for future mortgage payments from your lender once the refinance is processed.