Posted by gator on 11/21/03 7:14am
Msg #291

Advice getting started

I'm looking for some suggestions on getting started as a closer and looking for some advice to help build my business. I was a loan officer for a couple of years until I had a baby---now I would like a little less hectic life but still have an income! Do you suggest getting on with signing agencies or going directly to the lenders or title companies? What is the benefits of both?

Any marketing ideas?

I live in Florida. Also, I am not NNA certified--should I be? I wasn't sure if the expense outweighed the benefit. I havent' pursued too much yet, not even quite sure all the steps I need to take to get certified.

Thanks so much.

Reply by Barbs_MO on 11/21/03 11:32am
Msg #292

I just passed my NSA certification exam yesterday- and I was soo excited. I did the online exam where you can keep taking it for free till you pass it. I have had many signing companies ask me if I am certified. I think it looks better on your resume, because it shows you took the time to educate yourself. I too have been a loan officer, so I am familiar with the forms, some of it is just common sense!

I got started in April a notary and signed up on the Signing Registry, which is great for feedback from new and old signers. I didn't even know about loan signing till October, when I got an email from them about checking out the message board. Since then I have been advertising aggressively through companies like 123Notary, Notary Rotary, etc. I got my first call as a referral from Notary Rotary right away, so that was exciting. I have been told by the experienced signers to start off with signing companies till I get a little experience, and then target title, loan and escrow companies. The latter are less forgiving of mistakes, so get your experience with the signing agencies. I also just signed up on Loan Signers Inc last night, hoping to get more calls.