Posted by PJM/MI on 11/1/05 5:12pm
Msg #73488

Addressing the "Newbies"

I keep seeing posts for people that are new to this industry or think they want to be. Competition is fierce, my friends.. just like every other business. Check the areas you want to cover to see how many other agents there are. You certainly don't want to get into this if your area is saturated with closers.
How are your computer skills? Are you able to receive/download/print docs? Because that is where the $ is. If you're using dialup for your ISP...get to a high speed connection. Yes, you MUST have a laser printer to print e-docs. The old ink printer has got to go. Do you have a large enough email? The ISP's give you limited incoming mail. You gotta get an email address that can handle a large email.
Do you want a 9-5 job? If so.. this is not for you. This is a 6 am to a midnight job. Do you have small children or a spouse that needs your undivided attention? If so, this is not the job for you. If you want to make your business work for you, you have to be able to change your plans at the last minute to accomodate a closing.(Especially if it pays well).
How much money are you willing to invest? This is not a "free" ride by any means. Just like all businesses, there are costs involved. Not only for supplies, but for advertising. You've got paper to buy, laser cartridges, business cards, pens, your journal, (even if your state doesn't require a journal, it is a GOOD idea to keep one. They also make great "tables" for closings), and you have to buy your commission, bond, E&O insurance. And oh yea, lots of gas for your vehicle.
Are you a "people" person? If you are afraid of meeting new people, this is not the job for you. You will be knocking on strangers doors and entering into their homes. (And no, you cannot make comments like, "WOW.. WHAT A MESS!")
Owning your own business is exactly that.. you are your own boss, yet like all businesses, the owner has to put his/her heart into it. I've never known a successful business owner who didn't live the business. (Just ask your local favorite resturant owner how many hours he/she spends there).
For all of you "newbies", please ask yourself if this is what you REALLY want to do.
I'm not trying to discourage anyone... I was just thinking about what it REALLY takes to be a closing agent. The same thing it takes to be any type of business owner.

Reply by Anonymous on 11/1/05 5:18pm
Msg #73490

Addressing the "Newbies"

YES YOU ARE trying to discourage new ones

Reply by Anonymous on 11/1/05 5:29pm
Msg #73491

Re: Addressing the "Newbies"

I agree. There are many who do not want to share their knowledge. Give me a break! In this world all that matters are the connections you have. Remember someties it's not what you know, it's who you know.

Reply by SoCal Signing Co. on 11/1/05 5:52pm
Msg #73502

Re: Addressing the "Newbies"


Making friends here can be very rewarding... if we give new ones a leg up.

Reply by Anonymous on 11/1/05 5:58pm
Msg #73504

Re: Addressing the "Newbies"

I agree with you. There is plenty to go around! It's not the quantity of SA in the area, it is the quality that matters!

Reply by Anonymous on 11/1/05 6:13pm
Msg #73505

Re: Addressing the "Newbies"

Someone who "gets it"
love it

Reply by SoCal Signing Co. on 11/1/05 6:13pm
Msg #73506

Re: Addressing the "Newbies"

Someone who "gets it"
love it

Reply by Brenda/CA on 11/1/05 6:18pm
Msg #73508

Re: Addressing the "Newbies"

I agree with PJM there are start-up costs, as with any business. If you want work there are various ways to market yourself, advertising, etc. You can start with the Signing Services here, and register with the companies listed. The more companies you list with the more calls you will receive. Ther are numerous websites for notaries, use your internet search engine. It is not who you know, it is how well you are able to sell your services, be aggresive.

Reply by SoCal Signing Co. on 11/1/05 9:26pm
Msg #73540

Re: Addressing the "Newbies"

Marketing can be important, but it can be WHO you know as well

do a good job, it will pay off

Reply by TitleGalCA on 11/1/05 9:52pm
Msg #73547

PJM, it sounds like you've put a lot of thought and (more important) experience in your post. You're right on - definite food for thought for those who want to try on being a SA. Encouragement is good, truth is better.

Great post.