May 14, 2025
By Hannah Chen, Founder & CEO of Loan Signing Solutions
As the chill of winter melts away and the days grow warmer, the real estate market comes to life with increased activity. Spring and early summer are historically the busiest times for home sales, refinances, and loan closings. This surge in real estate transactions presents a tremendous opportunity for notary signing agents to maximize their earnings and build lasting client relationships.
However, with greater volume comes greater demand for prepared, professional, and reliable signing agents. The question is, are you ready to handle the rush? Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to gear up for a busy signing season, from organizing your documents to marketing your services effectively.
1. Get Your Documents in Order: Prepare for Verification and Compliance
Before the flood of signing requests rolls in, it’s essential to ensure all your credentials are up to date and readily accessible. A well-prepared notary is a notary who gets hired—and rehired.
Verify Your Notary Commission
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Ensure your notary commission is active and valid through the entire busy season. Double-check the expiration date and renew early if necessary.
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Keep a digital copy of your commission readily available. You may need to present it to signing services, title companies, or lenders to verify your credentials.
Review Your Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance
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E&O insurance is not just a requirement for some signing services; it’s a critical safety net that protects you and your clients.
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Confirm that your coverage is current and sufficient for the volume of signings you anticipate. Many signing services require a minimum of $100,000 in coverage, but some may require more.
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If you need to update or upgrade your coverage, do so now to avoid potential delays in assignments.
Background Screening: Stay Current
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Background checks are a key component of notary verification. At Loan Signing Solutions, we require annual screenings to maintain the integrity of our network.
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Make sure your background check is up to date and accessible. If your screening has expired or is close to expiration, initiate a new screening immediately.
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Remember, many title companies and lenders will not work with notaries whose background screenings are out of date.
Organize Your Digital Copies
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Create a secure, organized folder on your computer with digital copies of all essential documents: Notary commission, E&O insurance, background check, and any certifications.
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Label each file clearly to avoid confusion during the busy season. This level of preparation will save you valuable time when new assignments come in.
2. Optimize Your Schedule for Maximum Availability
Spring and early summer are the busiest times for real estate closings and loan signings. During this period, many notaries report record-high assignment volumes, but to capitalize on the surge, you need to be strategic with your schedule.
Expand Your Availability
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Consider opening your schedule to include evenings, weekends, and holidays. Many borrowers need flexibility, especially when they are trying to close on a home or refinance quickly.
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Stay alert for last-minute signing requests. Borrowers may cancel or reschedule, and being available to fill those gaps can significantly increase your earnings.
Use a Robust Scheduling System
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Implement a reliable calendar or scheduling tool to track all upcoming signings, deadlines, and assignments. Google Calendar, Notary Gadget, and Signing Order are excellent tools for managing appointments.
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Consider setting up email or text alerts for new signing requests. Missing a notification can mean missing a lucrative opportunity.
Prepare for Remote Signings
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If you are a Remote Online Notary (RON), now is the time to ensure your digital setup is working smoothly. Verify your digital seal, video conferencing tools, and secure document transmission systems.
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Spring and summer bring an increase in out-of-state closings, making RON services highly valuable.
3. Stay Organized with Supplies and Technology
A busy season can quickly become chaotic if you’re not properly organized and well-equipped. Now is the time to stock up on supplies, maintain equipment, and optimize your mobile office setup.
Stock Up on Essential Supplies
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Ensure you have an ample supply of:
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Black and blue ink pens (for borrowers and yourself)
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Seals and notary stamps (with clear, legible impressions)
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Legal and letter-sized paper (for printing loan documents)
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Envelopes, shipping labels, and shipping supplies (for sending completed documents)
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Invest in Technology Upgrades
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A portable scanner is a must-have for quick scan-backs and document verification. Opt for a compact, high-speed model with wireless capabilities.
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Mobile printers can be game changers for notaries who handle multiple signings in a single day. They allow you to print last-minute documents without returning to the office.
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Keep your laptop, tablet, and smartphone fully charged and updated. Having backup chargers and mobile hotspots ensures that you can stay connected and responsive.
4. Refresh Your Loan Signing Knowledge
Spring and early summer are not just busy seasons—they’re also when complex loan signings increase in volume. Stay sharp and informed to handle more assignments effectively.
Review Loan Packages
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Take the time to review various types of loan documents: refinance, reverse mortgage, HELOC, purchase, and seller packages.
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Pay special attention to commonly missed signatures, critical documents, and complex terms that borrowers may have questions about.
Stay Current on State Notary Laws
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States frequently update notarial laws and procedures, especially regarding remote notarizations and digital signings.
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If your state has implemented new regulations, ensure you are fully compliant and up to date.
5. Network and Market Yourself
The busy season is a perfect time to expand your client base and market your services effectively.
Reach Out to Past Clients
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Send a friendly email or text message to past clients, escrow officers, and title companies. Let them know you’re available for signings and ready to assist.
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Consider offering a limited-time discount for repeat clients or multiple assignments.
Join Reputable Signing Services
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Loan Signing Solutions offers exclusive signing opportunities to professional, vetted notaries.
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Our notaries receive 100% of the signing fee and have access to ongoing training and support.
Conclusion: Make the Most of the Busy Season
Spring and early summer represent a golden opportunity for notary signing agents to maximize their earnings, expand their network, and gain valuable experience. But to do so effectively, you must be prepared, organized, and proactive.
From updating credentials and stocking up on supplies to marketing your services and being available for last-minute signings, every step you take now can set you up for a profitable signing season.
At Loan Signing Solutions, we’re committed to helping notaries succeed during the busiest times of the year. Join our network today and secure your spot for high-quality signings all season long.
By Hannah Chen