Why Choosing Quality Over Quantity Matters in Loan Signings

November 5, 2024

By Hannah Chen, Founder & CEO of Loan Signing Solutions

In the fast-paced world of escrow, title offices, and mortgage companies, choosing the right signing company can make or break a smooth closing. Each loan signing involves sensitive documents, tight deadlines, and the expectation of error-free execution. Yet, some companies choose to save a few bucks by partnering with signing services that boast tens of thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of notaries in their network.

Impressive? Sure, if quantity were all that mattered. But those of us in the industry know the harsh truth: these “notary sweatshops,” as they’re often (and aptly) called, prioritize volume over quality. And that’s a recipe for disaster.

The Reality Behind the Numbers

Let’s get real. A signing company bragging about having 100,000 notaries might sound like the Amazon of notary services. But once you dig a little deeper, you’ll realize something important: not all notaries are created equal.

The sad reality is that 80–90% of these notaries lack the experience or expertise to handle complex mortgage signings. It’s like buying a “mystery box” online—you never know what you’re going to get.

And when mistakes happen (because they inevitably do with unqualified notaries), the fallout isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a domino effect of frustration:

  • For Borrowers: Imagine a family eagerly packing boxes to move into their new home, only to find out their closing is delayed because of an error. Cue the stress, disappointment, and maybe even a few frantic calls to their loan officer.
  • For Loan Officers: Loan officers live by their quotas and deadlines. A delay or mistake caused by a botched signing means missed targets, delayed commissions, and awkward conversations with frustrated borrowers.
  • For Escrow Officers: Nobody enjoys redoing work they’ve already done. But that’s exactly what happens when there’s a signing error—redrawing documents, juggling timelines, and dealing with irate lenders and borrowers.

All of this chaos—this avalanche of frustration and delays—just to save $50 or $100 on a notary fee. Really? As the old saying goes, “A cheap man pays twice,” and in the world of mortgage transactions, that price tag can quickly spiral into thousands of dollars in lost opportunities and wasted time.

“We’re Saving Borrowers Money!” – Really?

One of the most common excuses I hear is, “We’re just trying to save borrowers money.” Let’s be honest—that’s nonsense. Over my decades in the industry, I’ve never once had a borrower call to complain about the notary fee on their closing disclosure.  I’ve worked in this industry for decades, and not once has a borrower called to question those costs. They’re far more concerned about origination fees, title insurance, escrow charges.

Instead, borrowers call to complain when their signing doesn’t go smoothly. They’re upset about notaries who mishandle documents, don’t show up on time, or fail to provide the professionalism borrowers expect for such an important life event. Borrowers are more than happy to pay a bit more for the peace of mind that comes with a well-executed closing.

Why Loan Signing Solutions is Different

At Loan Signing Solutions, we take pride in doing things differently. We don’t care about boasting the biggest network of notaries—we care about working with the best. Our notaries are experienced, vetted, and trained to handle even the most complex signings with care and professionalism.

We’re not about cutting corners or saving a few bucks at the expense of quality. Our mission is simple: to ensure every loan is signed right the first time, on time, every time.

Here’s what you can expect when you partner with us:

  • First Time: We do it right the first time. No costly redraws, no frustrated borrowers.
  • Right Time: Our notaries show up on time, every time—because punctuality matters.
  • Every Time: Consistency is the backbone of our service. You can count on us, every signing, every borrower.

A Little Perspective on Costs

In 2024, the average mortgage amount in the U.S. is between $350,000 and $380,000. In California, those numbers soar even higher—cue the collective sigh from anyone trying to buy a house in LA. So why would you risk such a significant transaction on an unknown notary charging rock-bottom rates?

It’s like ordering a gourmet meal and asking the restaurant to “save money” by hiring a random chef off the street. Sure, you might save a few bucks, but don’t be surprised if you end up with burnt toast instead of filet mignon.

Quality Over Quantity

At the end of the day, choosing a signing company isn’t just about cost—it’s about value. It’s about partnering with a team that understands the stakes and takes pride in delivering professional, reliable, and error-free service.

At Loan Signing Solutions, we don’t just send a notary to a signing. We send peace of mind.

So, if you’re tired of gambling on unqualified notaries or dealing with the fallout of signing errors, give us a call. Because when it comes to closing loans, you deserve the best. And we promise to deliver.

Contact Loan Signing Solutions today. Let’s make every closing a success.

Hannah Chen
Loan Signing Solutions