ActiveRain Success Stories

Dave Futch, "Get In Touch with Dave Futch" (Coldwell Banker Island Properties): Real Estate Agent in Haiku, HI Dave Futch, "Get In Touch with Dave Futch" (Coldwell Banker Island Properties) said over 13 years ago,
"A new client saw my yard signs but when my profile was seen on Active Rain, my phone rang...Now I have an active, prequalified Buyer. The rest will soon be history."
Joyce Eads (Moving Forward Realty, Inc.): Real Estate Agent in Saint Cloud, FL Joyce Eads (Moving Forward Realty, Inc.) said over 13 years ago,
"I think my success story will one day be Active Rain. But what is Active Rain? It is wonderful people who are willing to offer a helping hand, to reach out and offer advice, to support each other with encouragement, to share trials and tribulations and to remind each of us that we are not alone."
Althea Garner (Preferred Realty Executives): Real Estate Agent in Port St Lucie, FL Althea Garner (Preferred Realty Executives) said over 13 years ago,
"None to date"
Dianna L. Hanson, Notary Signing Agent (Dianna L. Hanson, Notary Signing Specialist): Services for Real Estate Pros in Fort Worth, TX Dianna L. Hanson, Notary Signing Agent (Dianna L. Hanson, Notary Signing Specialist) said over 13 years ago,
"'What exactly is a notary signing agent, and what do they do?'

The simple answer is that, notary signing agents are notaries who are specially trained to conduct mortgage loan closings. Notary signing agents make it possible for someone to do the closing of their mortgage loan, whenever and wherever it is most convenient for them. Many of us work 24/7, which means that there is virtually no limit to when and where the closing can take place.

How does all of this happen?

For example, someone in Texas can go online and borrow from a lender in California. Is it necessary for that borrower to board a plane and fly to California for the signing of their loan documents, some of which also need to be notarized? Or to make a trip to a title company? No. Instead, a notary signing agent will bring the loan documents to the borrower to be signed and notarized.

What usually happens is that I will get a call from a title company to do a closing. They email a confirmation sheet with the borrower's name, address, and phone number, along with other information about the closing. The loan documents are sent to me, most of the time in an email attachment. Or they will provide a link to where I can download the documents from a secure website. I make a confirmation call to the borrower, print the loan documents, and then go to the borrower to have the documents signed and notarized. This can be at their home, their place of work, or wherever it's most convenient for them -- any time of day or night. Afterwords I deliver the documents back to the title company, usually by overnight courier. If it's a local title company here in Colorado Springs, I will personally deliver them.

The whole idea is to make it more convenient for the borrower to conduct real estate transactions. It's a convenience for the lender as well. Closings have even been done while borrowers were traveling on vacation in their recreational vehicle.

What are the limitations of notary signing agents?

As I'm going over the documents with the borrower during the closing, if the borrower has a specific question about the terms of their loan, I remind them that they will have to ask their loan officer, and that I work for neither the lender nor the title company.

"Well then, who DO YOU work for?"

Notary signing agents are independent contractors. We work for many different companies. It's not uncommon that I will close loans for 3 different lenders, from 3 different parts of the country, on the same day. Yet I represent all of them as if I did work for them.

Is the borrower's sensitive information safe?

Absolutely. Notary signing agents go to great lengths to secure the borrower's sensitive information.

How much money do notary signing agents make, and what kind of hours do they work?

One of the biggest myths surrounding this profession is that, becoming a notary signing agent is a 'get-rich-quick' way of making money. That is far from the truth. Many prospective signing agents come into this profession disillusioned, thinking that they can quit their job and immediately earn a six-figure salary. The job of a notary signing agent is not easy. And it can be very frustrating at times. Notary signing agents work very hard, and it can take a long time to get established to the point where one can make a living at this. And those who are able to make a living usually work long hours. On several occasions I have left the office to do a closing at 8:00 a.m., and didn't finish the day until close to midnight. Very many of us make ourselves available 24/7, because we have to be available whenever it is convenient for the borrower. Sometimes I'll get a call to do a closing at 7 a.m. because the borrower wants to sign the papers before they go to work, or because that is the only time they are available.

Reverse Mortgages

This is an area in which notary signing agents can play a significant role. The people who are least able to leave their homes and travel great distances are the elderly. Many of us are trained to do Reverse Mortgage closings and have a lot of experience working with senior citizens. We take a lot of pride in serving these clients.

Speaking of training, what type of training is required to become a Notary Signing Agent?

Some of the types of training include seminars, training manuals, and online courses. Most of the knowledge that we gain is through self-study. The training is a never-ending process.

Is there a professional organization for Notary Signing Agents?

Yes. There are many organizations that signing agents can join. The largest organization is the National Notary Association (NNA).

Are there professional designations?

Yes. The most widely recognized is the designation Certified Notary Signing Agent (CNSA) from the National Notary Association. In order to earn this designation the signing agent must pass a 3-part examination and undergo a background screening.

How does a company go about finding a notary signing agent? Are you listed in the Yellow Pages?

The most effective way to advertise is by becoming a member of the National Notary Association and becoming a member of the Notary Signing Agent section, registering with the major notary signing agent sites, signing up with signing companies, and having a website. The main thing is to never stop marketing.

The following is the Notary Signing Agent Pledge of Ethical Practice. It was prepared by the National Notary Association, and intended to be presented to the borrower at the beginning of each closing so that they understand the role of the notary signing agent:

"I am not an attorney and therefore, by law, I cannot explain or interpret the contents of any documents for you, instruct you on how to complete a document or direct you on the advisability of signing a particular document. By doing so I would be engaging in the unauthorized practice of law, and could face legal penalties that include the possibility of incarceration. Any important questions about your document should be addressed to the lender, Title Company or an attorney."

I have tried to give as broad a picture as possible. But I'm sure that I haven't completely answered the question: 'What is a Notary Signing Agent?’ It is such a multi-faceted profession.

There are many difficulties and challenges to this job. But for the most part it is a very rewarding profession, and I derive a great amount of satisfaction from what I do.

Below is a publication from the NNA describing what a Notary Public is:

A Notary Public is a state-appointed official who administers oaths and serves as an impartial witness when important documents are signed. Because people have documents notarized to deter fraud, a Notary positively identifies each signer, and then makes sure the signer has entered into the agreement knowingly and willingly. To
confirm that a document and its signature are authentic, the Notary affixes his or her signature and official seal to it.

The duties of a Notary sound pretty basic. And yet, as identity crimes and homeland security concerns have raised our awareness about the need to protect our personal information from being used against us, the role of today’s Notary Public has become increasingly complex, and the demand for capable and experienced Notaries has never been greater.

A Notary Public is a knowledgeable, highly qualified public official. The Notary Public keeps current with the laws, practices and requirements of the office. In several states, a Notary Public must pass a rigorous state exam or complete a state mandated course in order to qualify for the position. Additionally, many Notaries actively seek additional education and training on their duties even when it is not required of them.

A Notary Public is the embodiment of integrity. The dedicated Notary Public does not take shortcuts for the sake of convenience or when pressured by clients, friends or employers. The Notary thoroughly checks the identification of the document signers. If the Notary finds them wanting, he or she refuses to perform the notarization. The Notary strives to keep all notarial acts confidential and protects the seal of office from misuse.

A Notary Public is the soul of impartiality. Notaries must be unbiased and may never personally benefit when they perform their duties. Notarial services are available to the public at large without regard for a client’s race, nationality, gender, faith, creed, sexual orientation or political belief.

A Notary Public is a guarantor of trust. The Notary’s seal upon a document validates that transaction’s integrity in the eyes of the law. A notarized document carries greater weight in legal matters, and the document that bears the Notary’s seal is considered genuine on its face. When the simplest details can affect the enforcement of a document, you can rely upon the Notary’s diligence and expertise to guarantee the document’s integrity.

A Notary Public is our first line of defense against fraud and identity theft. Today’s Notaries are identity specialists. The Notary’s signature, seal and journal are emblems of authenticity, designed to assure the public that a document’s signer is not an impostor and that the signature is not a forgery.

The Notary’s journal provides an independent record of the details of the transaction (signer’s name, signature,
thumbprint as required) and has proved time and again to protect innocent victims while exposing true criminals.

A Notary Public is an important player in our homeland security. A Notary Public’s expertise safeguards the integrity of documents that affect domestic and international commerce, immigration, travel and countless other areas of our lives where security matters most of all.

A Notary Public is an asset to employers. Many employers understand the benefits of having a Notary Public on staff. Notaries recognize the serious financial and legal risks of identity- and document-fraud crimes and guard their employers against loss or exposure to potential lawsuits, just as they do any member of the public. Because there is no such thing as a “Notary private,” privately employed Notaries remain duty-bound to put the law above all other matters and to serve all members of the public — not just business clients. This commitment to high standards of integrity protects the interests of both the employer and the public and allows the Notary to play a key role in the company’s continuing success.

A Notary Public is very different from a Unlike the high-ranking notarios publicos of Latin America, the Notary Public of the United States does not prepare immigration documents or hold a highly prestigious position equivalent to that of a judge. The Notary is not an attorney and may not prepare legal documents or give advice on immigration or other legal matters (unless the Notary also happens to be a member of the bar).

A Notary Public is an e-commerce trailblazer. With the ongoing development of the exciting process of
eNotarization, today’s Notary can perform a notarization and then record the signer’s identification, signature, thumbprint and even photograph electronically. As eNotarization technology advances, Notaries will soon be able to
perform the complete notarial act electronically — with the document signed and notarized entirely without paper and then dispatched over the Internet.

A Notary Public is the people’s witness. Because Notaries are always available to serve and protect the public, the Notary’s ultimate concern is the public’s trust. He or she uses every tool and skill available to maintain the public’s confidence in society’s most important and sensitive agreements and contracts. The Notary achieves this through consistency, fairness, integrity, honor, and a devotion to duty and the law above all things. Ultimately, the Notary Public provides a necessary and valuable service to government, business, and the public at large, making a vital difference for everyone.

NATIONAL NOTARY ASSOCIATION
9350 De Soto Avenue, P.O. Box 2402
Chatsworth, CA 91313-2402
1-818-739-4000
www.NationalNotary.org
© 2005 National Notary Association. All Rights Reserved.
P25940
The National Notary Association
This brochure was developed and printed as a public service by the
National Notary Association, a nonprofit professional organization.
Since 1957, the NNA has served the nation’s Notaries — today
numbering 4.5 million — as the authority for information on
Notary laws, customs and practices. The Association is widely
known for its role as the preeminent publisher of information for
and about Notaries, as well as for the services and support it
provides its member Notaries.
For information about the National Notary Association and
membership, please call or write the NNA."
Todd Franzen (Bauer Companies): Home Builder in Minneapolis, MN Todd Franzen (Bauer Companies) said over 13 years ago,
"I have worked with Dax Dickson with Commercial Finance Store. He has referred us to a client that was converting a health care facility to apartments. We are working right now to get the financing done! I want to thank Dax, The Commercial Finance Store and Active Rain for the Sucess!

Todd Franzen"
Darrin Davis, Broker/Owner (ANACOSTIA RIVER REALTY:  Fine EAST OF THE RIVER Living.): Real Estate Broker/Owner in Washington, DC Darrin Davis, Broker/Owner (ANACOSTIA RIVER REALTY: Fine EAST OF THE RIVER Living.) said over 13 years ago,
"Anacostia River Realty would like to introduce you to fine east of the Anacostia River living in Washington, DC. Because we are the "neighborhood specialists" in east of the Anacostia River real estate, we are experts at pricing and marketing our fine homes for sale. Often, we have knowledge of homes for sale or rent before they are available to the general public. In addition, our client's homes typically sell faster than our competitor's listings."
Cherrybrook Property Management (Cherrybrook Property Management): Services for Real Estate Pros in San Antonio, TX Cherrybrook Property Management (Cherrybrook Property Management) said over 13 years ago,
"Cherrybrook most recent accomplishment was the complete repositioning of Fairmeadows Place and Tuscan Villas located in San Antonio, TX. The Asset Management Team analyzed the properties financial's and the Construction Management Team determined the cost to rehab the units and a plan was implemented and presented to the client. New property management software was installed and the current manager was trained in it's use and how to interpret various reports to help make correct decision for the owner. These properties are still currently owned by the same client and managed by a relative of the client."
Downtown Los Angeles Notary Los Angeles County Notaries (Downtown Los Angeles Notary): Services for Real Estate Pros in Los Angeles, CA Downtown Los Angeles Notary Los Angeles County Notaries (Downtown Los Angeles Notary) said over 13 years ago,
"WELCOME TO DOWNTOWN LA NOTARIES!

Downtown Los Angeles Notaries
& Paralegal Services

Downtown LA Notaries are Licensed Certified Notaries in the state of California serving all of Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles County and surrounding cities. We specialize in providing prompt and professional service you can trust! Our Certified Notaries provide superior customer service, specialized notarial knowledge and loan signing services On-Call and in-house! Si se habla espanol. DTLA Notaries will travel to meet your needs. We're here for you 24/7!

Discover why more people choose DTLA Notaries for their business needs:"
Notary Public (Downtown Long Beach Notaries): Services for Real Estate Pros in Long Beach, CA Notary Public (Downtown Long Beach Notaries) said over 13 years ago,
"DOWNTOWN LB NOTARIES SERVICES:
MOBILE NOTARY PUBLIC
TRAVELING NOTARY

BUSINESS ENTITIES
• Corporations
• Limited Liability Companies
• Limited Partnerships
• General Partnerships
• Limited Liability Partnerships
• Non-Profit
• Trademarks and Service Marks
• Miscellaneous Filings
TRADEMARKS AND TRADE NAMES
What is a trademark or service mark?
A trademark is a word, phrase, symbol or design, or a combination of words, phrases, symbols or designs, that identifies and distinguishes the source of the goods of one party from those of others.
A service mark is the same as a trademark, except that it identifies and distinguishes the source of a service rather than a product.
Do Trademarks, Copyrights and Patents protect the same things?
No. Trademarks, copyrights and patents all differ. A copyright protects an original artistic or literary work; a patent protects an invention.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
(FBN) STATEMENT
A fictitious business name, assumed name, or DBA (short for "doing business as"), referred to as "trading as" in the US, allows you to legally do business as a particular name at minimal cost, and without having to create an entirely new business entity. You can accept payments, advertise, and otherwise present yourself under that name."
Horizon BCBSNJ (Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey): Real Estate Agent in Newark, NJ Horizon BCBSNJ (Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey) said over 13 years ago,
"Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is the oldest and largest health insurer in the state of New Jersey. Horizon BCBSNJ is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association."
Sue Paskert: Real Estate Agent in Tampa, FL Sue Paskert said over 13 years ago,
"I am anxious to continue my success with the help of ActiveRain members. Will look hearing from you with your challenges and success stories in today's market."
Ernest Pujals (Keller Williams Metro North, real-estate ): Real Estate Agent in Flower Mound, TX Ernest Pujals (Keller Williams Metro North, real-estate ) said over 13 years ago,
"I have Done my first two post and Both made it to page one of google"
tim may (Flexus): Services for Real Estate Pros in Concan, TX tim may (Flexus) said over 13 years ago,
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Mayu Mayu: Real Estate Agent in Glencoe, IL Mayu Mayu said over 13 years ago,
"Mayu is a social enterprise selling one-of-a-kind alpaca accessories such as scarves, hats, wraps, hoodies and throws. Our ethical fashion is knit with 100% eco-friendly alpaca fiber by artisans in the Andes Mountains of Peru. Mayu is a proud member of the Fair Trade Federation."
Von Sutten (Ready Real Estate): Real Estate Broker/Owner in Fort Worth, TX Von Sutten (Ready Real Estate) said over 13 years ago,
"Did you know Ready Real Estate is the exlusive provider of Real Estate services for online retail Giant:
Overstock.com
Overstock.com who also is Value Driven has selected Ready Real Estate to provide real estate services to their shoppers in all the markets we serve.
You can check us out with our Overstock connection at:
http://www.rredallas.com
http://www.rreaustin.com
for just a few examples."
Roy Rodrigues, Broker, SRES, GREEN (Remax Escarpment Realty Inc. Brokerage): Real Estate Agent in Hamilton, ON Roy Rodrigues, Broker, SRES, GREEN (Remax Escarpment Realty Inc. Brokerage) said over 13 years ago,
"Working successfully towards helping clients achieve their needs and dreams since 1995."
David Street (CENTURY 21 CARIOTI): Real Estate Agent in Orlando, FL David Street (CENTURY 21 CARIOTI) said over 13 years ago,
"Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. After exploring a wide range of employment, I deciding it was time to follow my dreams and things that I was passionate about. After helping tons of friends find, fix and sell homes, I decided that this was something I wanted to do for life. So, 5 years ago after opening two established daycare centers, I decided to pursue a life in real estate. And choose the sunny state of Florida to do it in.
Giving you the best deal with the type of property you want to buy!"
Lillian Pastora: Education & Training in San Diego, CA Lillian Pastora said over 13 years ago,
"We love getting comments from the folks on ActiveRain. This is a very active community of agents that we are honored to be a part of."
mike guyton (MIKE GUYTON APPRAISAL CO): Real Estate Appraiser in Tupelo, MS mike guyton (MIKE GUYTON APPRAISAL CO) said over 13 years ago,
"BBA DEGREE, GA -126 STATE LICENSE/ BEEN A BROKER, HOMEBUILDER, APPRAISER, REAL ESTATE, APPRAISER INSTRUCTOR AT ICC,COUNSELOR/MIKE GUYTON APPRAISAL CO/TUPELO, MS"
Abdulwali Pareshan (Pareshan): Real Estate Agent in Neola, UT Abdulwali Pareshan (Pareshan) said over 13 years ago,
"My story is so outstanding and very wonderful but if you will allow me that I registered here then I will take easy to tell you my successful story of my active rain?"