Posted by Dimitri on 4/15/11 2:47pm
Msg #379952

PA Signing agent certification req's...

Hello! I have another question:

To become a loan signing agent: do I need to complete an official training/certification? From what I read so far, signing agents are all commissioned notaries. In other words, any Notary can perform a signing duties without additional certification from State of PA. And all of the classes that are offered are just an additional way for private companies/schools to raise revenue. Is this true? I am asking because I worked at the bank before and have some experience in loan signing, but do not have any sort of certificate for that. So, can I go ahead an advertise myself as a signing agent? Thanks!!!!!

Reply by cremevette on 4/15/11 3:00pm
Msg #379957

For Pennsylvania, you will need to take the mandatory class to become a notary. Once you complete that, you'll need the signature of a state senator, pay a fee, go to the courthouse, pay a fee, pay for your seal, pay for the bond, pay for the E&O and you're on the road. See the trend? Lots of fees. PA is much more expensive than OH.

Reply by Les_CO on 4/15/11 3:13pm
Msg #379963

Notaries Public do not have to be Signing Agents. Signing Agents do not have to be Notaries Public. Although if not, it makes it a bit difficult, as someone acting in that capacity has to drag a Notary Public along with them to the closing. To be a ... “Notary Signing Agent” (a ‘made-up’ term/title) one must be both. One requires a Commission, the other just the will to do it. If you want to learn, read these boards, and I suggest you take whatever courses are available here on NR, and also look into the National Signing Agent Registry, join and take their available study courses .It’s a fun but a monetarily unrewarding job. JMO

Reply by Dimitri on 4/15/11 3:26pm
Msg #379969

Well, I am already a commissioned Notary. I am just looking for the way to start loan signings. So, what is the most affordable way to become certified + have a background check completed? Thank you again for your tips!!!!!!!!

Reply by Les_CO on 4/15/11 3:41pm
Msg #379972

Certification is not required; a background check is not required. One can get a free background check from LexisNexis, or buy one here. I believe one can also be certified by NR.(take their course ) or any number of other places. That does not make you competent to do the job of a ‘NSA” so I’d also suggest you buy some liability insurance.

Reply by FlaNotary2 on 4/15/11 4:26pm
Msg #379974

If you are expecting to make good money as a signing agent

you will be greatly dissapointed.

Go through the last few weeks on this board and you will see that some notaries who have been in this business a long time can't find any work. I think you should reconsider your move into a very oversaturated profession.

JMHO

Reply by Bob_Chicago on 4/15/11 5:02pm
Msg #379983

Again, Robert, I believe that it would only be fair, if

when you comment on aspects of being a Notary Signing Agent, you
add a disclaimer to the effect of ( "I have never participated in the Notary Signing Agent
business, and my only knowledge of the business is based on what I have read here")
While all are entitled to their opinon, advice can best be relied upon if given by those with actual , first hand knowledge and experience.

Reply by Les_CO on 4/15/11 5:57pm
Msg #380002

Re: Again, Robert, I believe that it would only be fair, if

Come on Bob…Everything Robert said was true. (And he’s got 2 passports meaning in your neck of the woods he could vote 8 times….jmo!)

Reply by FlaNotary2 on 4/15/11 6:52pm
Msg #380011

Re: Again, Robert, I believe that it would only be fair, if

I know a great deal about this profession. I am not going to list my credentials here but feel free to look at my profile.

This is not just a signing agent issue. Too many people become notaries hoping to make a living as a signing agent. This has adverse effects on notaries, not just signing agents.

Reply by JandB on 4/15/11 7:49pm
Msg #380013

the short answer

is any notary can be a signing agent. You are not required to be certified or have a background screening. Work is slow right now. Where in PA do you live.

Reply by James Dawson on 4/15/11 8:14pm
Msg #380016

disagree..while there is no such thing as a true

certification don't you think your answer mighT be "state" specific? Some TC in some states require BGC.

Reply by Linda_H/FL on 4/15/11 8:36pm
Msg #380018

IMO, certification and BGC requirements are company

specific - not so much state-specific.

Reply by JandB on 4/15/11 8:53pm
Msg #380021

Re: IMO, certification and BGC requirements are company

As far as I know, requirements for certification, BGC and E&O insurance are company requirements.

Reply by Linda_H/FL on 4/15/11 9:01pm
Msg #380022

I agree...but I was responding to your post

and the OP - didn't address E&O...but I do agree with you - all those requirements are company specific, not state specific NOR state-mandated or regulated.

Reply by JandB on 4/15/11 9:28pm
Msg #380026

We agree...you can. Now should you?

Do you have a business plan? Are you leaving you job at the bank?

Reply by cayenne1227 on 4/15/11 9:47pm
Msg #380029

GO AWAY!!!! Find something else to do...................... n/m

Reply by NJDiva on 4/15/11 10:24pm
Msg #380031

Re: GO AWAY!!!! Find something else to do......................

lmao!!!! I'd be thinking (would I dare post it on the board?? hmmmm) the same thing cayenne...lmao too funny!!!