Being a successful loan signing agent takes more than just showing up to sign documents. It requires dedication, attention to detail, a commitment to professionalism, and a business mindset. I’ve had the privilege of learning this the hard way, but I wouldn’t change my journey for anything. Every step of the way, I was guided by my mentor, Heather Roberts, who taught me not just the big things, but also the little details that can make or break a signing agent’s success.
Today, I want to share some of the key lessons I’ve learned along the way, in the hopes that it helps you, whether you’re just starting out or trying to take your signing business to the next level. Here’s how you can make money—and make a name for yourself—as a loan signing agent.
Invest in Quality Training and Mentorship
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the guidance of my mentor, Heather Roberts. She not only taught me how to navigate the intricacies of loan signing but also how to see the bigger picture of this business. If you’re new to the industry, investing in quality training and finding a mentor is one of the best ways to fast-track your success.
Why is mentorship important?
- Learn from experience: You get to avoid common mistakes and pitfalls by learning from someone who’s been there.
- Understand the nuances: Loan signings can be complex. A good mentor will teach you not just the steps of the process but how to handle unique situations that aren’t covered in basic training.
- Network: Many mentors, like Heather, have connections with escrow officers, title companies, and signing services. These relationships can open doors for you as you start building your business.
Don’t Settle for Low-Paying Jobs
One of the best pieces of advice Heather gave me was to never accept low-paying signings. I’ve seen companies offer $50 or $75 for a signing—what a joke! When everyone else in the transaction is getting paid hundreds or even thousands of dollars, there’s no reason why you should settle for less.
Set your standards high:
- Know your worth: I’ve never accepted anything less than $150 per signing, and you shouldn’t either. If you provide professional, reliable service, your clients will gladly pay you what you’re worth.
- Low-paying jobs hurt your business: By accepting lowball offers, you not only devalue your work but also set a precedent that may be hard to change later. Signing agents who take on $50 signings often struggle to break free from that pay range.
Expand Your Reach with Signing Platforms and Notary Directories
When I started getting more signings, it wasn’t just because of my relationship with Hannah Chen or the local offices. I expanded my reach by signing up with multiple online platforms and directories. The trick is to cast a wide net—you can’t rely on just one platform to bring you consistent business.
Here’s how to approach signing platforms:
- Sign up for multiple platforms: The more platforms you’re on, the more visibility you have, and the more signing requests will come your way.
- Don’t expect instant results: Patience is key. You might not get signings immediately after signing up, but think of it as an investment. If you spend $40-$60 to sign up for a directory and get 10-20 signings a year, that’s a return of $1,500-$4,000. It’s worth it!
- Keep your profiles updated: Regularly update your profile with new certifications or experiences. Clients want to know you’re active and available.
Invest in the Right Tools and Resources
To be efficient and professional, you need to invest in the right tools. One of my best investments was a portable printer that I kept in my minivan. Being able to print documents on the go saved me time and made me more flexible with last-minute requests.
Other important investments:
- A high-quality printer/scanner: Whether you’re in your home office or mobile, having a fast, reliable printer and scanner is essential. You’ll often need to print large sets of documents or scan and upload them quickly.
- Professional appearance: This is a business, not a side hustle. Dress professionally, carry loan documents in a quality briefcase, and package them neatly in a folder. This not only protects the privacy of the borrower but also leaves a lasting impression on your clients.
Take Advantage of Opportunities, Even on Holidays
One of the things that set me apart early in my career was my willingness to take on jobs when other notaries wouldn’t. I’ve done signings on holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and especially long weekends like Labor Day. It wasn’t always convenient for me or my family, but I saw it as an investment in my reputation.
Why holiday work pays off:
- High demand, low competition: Many notaries don’t want to work during holidays, but borrowers still need to sign documents, and escrow officers need reliable agents. I’ve made up to $5,000 during a single long weekend because I was the go-to notary when others weren’t available.
- Gratitude leads to more work: When you go above and beyond for clients during busy or inconvenient times, they remember you. Escrow officers and signing companies are more likely to send you future work because they know they can rely on you.
Treat It Like a Business, Not a Job
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, I view being a loan signing agent as a business, not just a job. This mindset shift has been key to my success. I take my work seriously, I’m always looking for ways to improve, and I invest in my tools, training, and networking.
Treating it as a business means:
- Being proactive, not reactive: Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Reach out to escrow officers, title companies, and signing services to let them know you’re available.
- Continuous learning: Always be on the lookout for ways to improve your skills and knowledge. Whether it’s mastering new digital tools or learning about updated regulations, staying ahead of the curve makes you more valuable to your clients.
- Marketing yourself: Invest in marketing materials like business cards, a professional website, or even social media profiles to promote your services.
Becoming a successful loan signing agent isn’t about luck—it’s about hard work, investing in yourself, and making smart decisions. Thanks to Heather’s mentorship and the opportunities I received from Hannah, I’ve built a career that not only pays well but also gave me the flexibility and freedom I value.
If you’re serious about making money as a loan signing agent, remember: set your standards high, invest in the right tools, be available when others aren’t, and always treat your work as a business. Success is out there, waiting for you to grab it.
My journey as a loan signing agent led to new opportunities. Because of my dedication and loyalty, Hannah Chen eventually offered me a position at Loan Signing Solutions. After having my third child, I found it increasingly difficult to balance my signing business with family life. I didn’t want to deliver anything less than excellence, and that’s when I made the decision to take on the new role in quality control.
Jessica Garcia
Quality Control
Loan Signing Solutions