Posted by Christina Encarnacion on 7/1/13 12:01pm
Msg #475273

New Loan Signing Agent

Hello Everyone,

I just became a signing agent in the bay area and want to start doing signings full time. I have experience as a real estate agent and a loan officer. I was also a notary for four years but took some time off to start a family. Does anyone have suggestions on how to become a successful signing agent?? Companies to work with or stay away from?? Should I charge a base fee and if so how much? Do I charge extra for printing docs? Miles driven? Thanks in advance for all the advice and help given.

Reply by Yoli/CA on 7/1/13 12:20pm
Msg #475276

Welcome to the biz, Christina!

First of all, generate a business plan. SCORE is a very helpful organization to contact. Only you can decide what fees will work for you based on your business plan. Only you know what expenses you've had to establish your business and what expenses you have to keep it going and make a profit. Remember to take into account ALL expenses: equipment (computer, printer, scanner, briefcase, notary stamp, journals, etc.), supplies (paper, toner, pens, etc.), auto, auto fuel, auto maintenance, taxes, insurance, professional attire, membership fees, bonds, marketing, etc. Your fee for any particular job is all-inclusive -- includes mileage, tolls, parking, etc. - so keep that in mind when quoting a fee. Look in Signing Central (tab above) and contact all 4-5 star companies. Finally, go back to the very first posting here and read forward. Some info is repeated MANY times as the same questions come up often. The orange search button is a good friend. Type in "newbie" or any such term and prepare to read and learn.

As a point of reference, I relocated from the Bay Area a couple of years ago and can tell you for a fact that any signing fee under $100 is just not feasible. JMHPO

Hold on and get ready for a crazy ride!!

Reply by jba/fl on 7/1/13 12:23pm
Msg #475277

Best tip you will get: Google is your friend.

2nd: Read this forum daily, starting with Msg #33325
3rd: the Orange Search button here is your next best friend. If a topic can be thought of, it is here.
4th: McDonald's doesn't tell Burger King how to do it. Signing Central button will whisper sweet nothings to you.

This forum is chock full of nuts and all the bolts to put things into perspective for you. It has been written by those who have gone before you into the great unknown. Invest some time here.

Reply by Christine/OK on 7/1/13 1:13pm
Msg #475287

How to list your services on Google Maps . . .

Another way to market your company is to be listed on Google Maps (free). Here is the Google link:

http://www.google.com/local/add/analyticsSplashPage?gl=us&hl=en-US&pli=1

When I set my business up it took about 2 weeks to receive the PIN after they verify all your data. Google will send you a postcard in snail mail. Best wishes!

Reply by Dana Salerno on 7/8/13 1:15am
Msg #475894

Go to the web site for the Ca. CoMmission of Banks and get the list of all banks licensed in Ca. to do reverse mortgages. Send a letter to each requesting an application packet to be on their list. send me an email at [e-mail address] and I will email my application letter to you. THIS GETS YOU ON THEIR LIST!!!

I GOT BUSY FAST- TAKES 100 HOURS OF FOCUSED NETWORKING DANA