What to Expect During a Loan Signing Appointment

What to Expect During a Loan Signing Appointment in San Antonio
By Dependable Ink Signings

So, you’re buying a house, refinancing, or maybe helping a family member handle paperwork for a property. Congrats or deep breaths, depending on how the day’s going. Either way, at some point, someone probably told you, “We’ll send a notary to you for the loan signing.” And now you're wondering... what exactly does that mean?

If you’re in the San Antonio or Comal County area, I’m here to walk you through what to expect during a loan signing appointment. No legal speak, no fluff - just straight answers and a little real-talk from someone who’s done this hundreds of times.

First Off, What Is a Loan Signing?

A loan signing appointment is the final step in a real estate transaction. It’s where you sit down, go through a stack of documents (yes, there will be a stack), and sign everything that makes your home purchase, refinance, or equity loan official. A mobile notary public, like me, guides you through the process, verifies your identity, and makes sure the documents are signed and notarized correctly.

This is important stuff. Missing signatures or incorrect dates can delay funding, and no one wants that. I’m here to make sure it goes smoothly.

What Happens Before the Appointment?

Before we meet, I’ll confirm the appointment time and location with you directly, whether that's your home, a title office, or somewhere else that’s convenient. I’ll also double-check that you have a valid, unexpired photo ID ready (think driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID).

Sometimes I’ll also remind you to grab your reading glasses if you need them. These documents aren’t always small print friendly!

What Should You Bring?

Besides your ID, you don’t need much. Just bring yourself, any co-signers or spouses who are listed on the loan, and maybe a bottle of water. If your loan officer or escrow officer has indicated you need to bring a cashier's check or proof of wired funds for closing, please bring that as well. Signings can take 30 to 90 minutes depending on the type of loan and how many questions you have.

If the appointment is for a trust delivery or estate planning documents, like a living trust, power of attorney, or will, I’ll let you know ahead of time if witnesses are needed or if there’s anything special to prep.

What Happens During the Appointment?

Once we’re settled in, I’ll walk you through the documents and point out what you’re signing. I’m not allowed to explain or interpret the terms (that’s a job for your lender or attorney), but I can tell you the general purpose of each form and help keep us moving through the stack.

Here’s the good news: You don’t have to memorize anything. I’ll flag where to sign, double-check every page, and make sure nothing gets missed. If something looks off, I’ll pause and help you get answers from your lender or escrow officer.

You can expect to sign:

• The deed of trust or mortgage

• The promissory note (aka the agreement to repay)

• Disclosures about your loan terms and payments

• Tax and insurance documents

• And a few other standard forms your lender includes

If we’re doing an estate planning signing instead of a loan, you’ll still be walked through each document carefully, but the stack is usually smaller and more focused on powers of attorney, living trusts, or wills.

How Long Does It Take?

Plan for about an hour, give or take. Refinance appointments tend to be quicker than new home purchases. Estate planning signings can be faster unless witnesses are required. I build in extra time for questions or last-minute hiccups, so no one feels rushed.

What Happens After You Sign?

Once everything is signed and notarized, I’ll either return the documents to your escrow officer or provide instructions on what happens next. If you're working with an attorney, I can make sure documents are delivered exactly as needed.

And yes, I’ll triple-check that nothing is missed before I leave. You’ve got enough on your plate without chasing down a stray signature later.

Why Choose a Mobile Notary in San Antonio?

Simple: Convenience and accuracy. I come to you, on your schedule, and make the process less stressful. Whether you're closing on a house in Alamo Heights, finalizing a refinance in New Braunfels, or signing trust documents in Bulverde, I make it easy.

Plus, I specialize in real estate and estate planning signings. That means I know the documents inside and out, and I understand how important it is to get it right the first time.

A Few Final Tips

• Don’t sign anything before I arrive. Everything needs to be signed in front of the notary to be valid.

• Have your ID ready. I can’t notarize anything without verifying identity.

• Ask questions early. If there’s anything you’re unsure about, check with your lender or attorney before the appointment, or ask me and I’ll help you find the right person to answer it.

Let’s Make This Easy

If you’ve got a loan signing or estate planning appointment coming up in the San Antonio area and want it done professionally and without the stress, reach out. I’d be happy to help.

Contact me today to schedule your appointment or get more information. Let’s get it done right the first time.