I get what you're saying! They hypocrisy is in hoping to have a slight appearance of a "settlement" for a nominal fee to the notary . . . yet wanting him/her to be more than that - a Notary who is witnessing signatures. If it takes a GNW FEE schedule to get folks to acquire a purposeful perspective and see clearly what's unfolding, that's great. One doesn't need "certifications" or recurring tests for $5/notarization!!
I realize there are plenty of "old school" notaries here with a different mind-set; but if you're having to resort to doing "Closings" for <$100 I'm sad for you. My role is limited to witnessing, guiding and helping facilitate the transaction through delivering documents (I've always said this a "concierge" or VIP service, like a tour guide) - NOT "reviewing" or "explaining" anything - as a Title Agent would. My fee for that service would be entirely different, reflecting my licensing & added insurance costs. My familiarity with the documents being executed and the process, as well as my ID verification and my stamp is why I'm there. The goal is to put signers at ease, while ensuring a reasonable level of compliance and accuracy so the deal can close.
p.s. Yesterday I was jerked around (again) by the same TC who booked then couldn't get its act together to have docs ready. It was the BOR who said he wanted to review docs in advance (you think??); I applauded him and said that is ideal but not always the norm in my experience. Closing ended up being delayed. That wouldn't have been a problem necessarily; but it was obvious that they were stringing us along. They wanted me to hold my schedule open ANOTHER day while having no commitment of when docs would show. The inconsideration and abuse is not worth these fees. I removed myself from their list. Now I can breathe easier. |