Posted by Silvina Friera on 8/6/10 4:48pm
Msg #347974

Signing Service Listing

What is really the best way to use the Signing Service Listing? If one is interested in connecting with one of these companies, what should one send in the way of documentation or résumés or references or cover letters or just what? Any general info about using this listing would be appreciated.

Reply by MikeC/NY on 8/6/10 5:34pm
Msg #347979

Check their web sites. They usually have either a link to where you can sign up with them online, or an application packet that you can download.

Pay careful attention to their terms and conditions, because that can come back to haunt you if you don't. You may read a clause or two in their agreement that you can't abide by (such as you taking full responsibility for anything that goes wrong, or that they will only pay some ridiculously low fee); if so, strike it and initial before you send it back. If they don't like it they won't call you, but you'll have saved yourself a lot of potential aggravation.

The only documentation you should have to send is a copy of your notary commission, a copy of your E&O insurance and/or bond, and possibly an ID (you should black out your ID number and date of birth - they don't need to know that). Do not EVER give them your SSN - get an EIN from the IRS and use that instead.

They may ask for a copy of your auto insurance or other things, but you can refuse to provide on the basis that they have no need to see that. Many ask for a copy of your notary stamp - if you're in a state that doesn't allow that, just tell them it's illegal. Even if you're not in a state that doesn't allow that, tell them it's illegal anyway. Chances are they won't know, and they really don't need it if they have a copy of your commission. Again, if they don't like that they may not call you, but you're probably better off...

If they ask for references, here's the rule of thumb - if it's an SS, only give them the names of other SSs you have worked for; otherwise, they will market to whatever TC clients you may have and potentially cut you out of the loop.

Finally, spend time checking them out here on NotRot BEFORE you apply - you'll find that some are just not worth the effort.

Good luck...

Reply by Mike/NC on 8/6/10 9:47pm
Msg #347997

That's some good info. You've enlightened me on a couple of things that I should do differently. Thanks.

Reply by Silvina Friera on 8/6/10 10:45pm
Msg #348003

"If they ask for references, here's the rule of thumb - if it's an SS, only give them the names of other SSs you have worked for; otherwise, they will market to whatever TC clients you may have and potentially cut you out of the loop." Sorry. I don't know what SS and TC mean.

Reply by Claudine Osborne on 8/6/10 10:55pm
Msg #348005

SS= Signing Service..TC= Title Company

Reply by MW/VA on 8/7/10 9:06am
Msg #348034

Important terms in the industry. ss are the middle men & will usually pay less than working directly with the tc.

Reply by Silvina Friera on 8/7/10 2:57pm
Msg #348097

Thanks for the information. Any further tips on getting business through the Signing Service Listing?