Navigating the Requirements of Witness Closings: Tips for Buyers and Sellers

Jun 29, 2023 | Title Group Closings

Witness closings are becoming more popular for completing home sales. The ability to sign documents separately makes the process more accommodating to buyers and sellers. However, you need to consider the requirements of witness closings ahead of time. This post will provide tips for handling the requirements of a witness closing.

Managing the Requirements of Witness Closings

Know the Closing Date

The closing date is the day you finalize the purchase of the home. It is important because all parties must have the documents signed and ready by the closing date. When a buyer makes an offer, they will list a closing date. However, the closing date can change depending on the circumstances. For example, the lender or title company may change the closing date to facilitate various aspects of the transaction.

Receiving Documents

A witness closing means that you and the other parties will not meet to handle the closing in person. That means you need to have the official documents to sign and return to the title company. The title company should send a closing package to you with enough time to handle your end of the signing.

Notary Services

Once you have the documents, you must find notary services for the signing. The notary will review the documents with you, verify your identity, and make sure you complete the signing. Buyers and sellers may have several options for finding a notary. Banks in your area may have notary services. Some parcel services have notaries on duty. You could also get a mobile notary to meet you somewhere. The title company can help you find a notary.

Returning the Documents

Once the documents are complete and notarized, you must return them to the title company. You should try to have them on the way as soon as possible. There are various deadlines for returning documents to different parties and filing them with the county. Most title companies will include a return envelope when they send closing documents. If so, you can put the documents in the envelope and bring them to the carrier.

Paying Closing Fees

You will also need to arrange for payment of the closing fees. You can handle this in a few ways. A wire transfer is one option. Personal checks might be an option up to a certain amount, but cashier’s checks are often a better option. You should coordinate payment with your title company. They can tell you which options are available and provide instructions.

Tennessee Title Services

Do you need help with a witness closing in Tennessee? Click here to contact the Title Group of Tennessee. Our team can walk you through the process and make it easy.

Thanks for visiting!