The Future of Real Estate Closings: eSigning, RON, and Hybrid Options for Buyers, Sellers, and Lenders - Game Changer

The real estate world is constantly evolving, and one of the most exciting developments in recent years has been the growing adoption of digital closing options. For buyers, sellers, and lenders, these advancements offer increased convenience, efficiency, and security—without sacrificing compliance or accuracy.

As title professionals, we’re seeing more interest in eSigning, Remote Online Notarization (RON), and hybrid closings. Each of these options can streamline the closing experience, but they also come with specific requirements and considerations—especially for lenders. Here’s a look at the benefits of each option and how we ensure a smooth and secure closing process for everyone involved.

Why eSigning or Remote Online Notary – Convenience with Control

What is eSigning? eSigning allows buyers and sellers the ability to electronically sign documents using secure platforms, ,eliminating the need for in-person signatures.. These are typically non-notarized documents which can be securely signed from a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Benefits for Buyers and Sellers:

• Time-Saving: Review and sign documents at your convenience before the closing date, reducing the time spent at the closing table.

• User-Friendly: Digital platforms guide you step-by-step, helping to prevent missed signatures or errors.

• Eco-Friendly: Less printing and paper waste.

• Safe and Reliable:  eSigning platforms comply with the ESIGN Act and UETA, ensuring signed documents are legally valid and tamper-evident. Electronic audit trails provide added security and transparency.

What is RON? RON (Remote Online Notarizations) allows buyers and sellers to have notarized documents signed and sealed online through a secure video session with a commissioned remote notary.

Benefits for Buyers and Sellers:

• Flexibility: Close from your home, office, or any location in the U.S. with a reliable internet connection.

• Scheduling Ease: More options for after-hours or tight-schedule closings.

• Security: Robust identity verification and encrypted video ensure your transaction is protected.

  
  

Lender Considerations:

• Lenders benefit from faster document turnaround and improved accuracy.

• Platforms comply with the ESIGN Act and UETA, ensuring signed documents are legally valid and tamper-evident.

• Electronic audit trails provide added security and transparency.

• Not all lenders accept RON—approval depends on individual lender policies and their investor guidelines.

• Before a RON closing is scheduled, Searchlight works directly with the lender to verify RON eligibility for the transaction.

• We use certified platforms to ensure full compliance with industry standards, giving lenders peace of mind about document integrity and legal standing.

What is a Hybrid Closing?  It’s the Best of Both Worlds. Hybrid closings combine both eSigning and traditional (wet) signing. Non-notarized documents are eSigned in advance, while notarized documents are signed in person at the closing table or via RON, depending on lender and client preferences. In some cases, the Lender may require the Promissory Note to be wet signed while all other loan documents can be signed electronically.

Benefits for Buyers and Sellers:

• Faster Closings: Spend less time at the closing appointment by completing part of the process beforehand.

• Personal Touch: Still allows for in-person interaction and review of critical documents, if desired.

• Flexibility: Great option when full RON isn’t permitted or preferred.

  
  

Lender Considerations:

• Many lenders prefer hybrid closings as a transition toward fully digital processes.

• Allows for control over notarization of critical documents while embracing efficiency for the rest.

• We as your Title Professionals will coordinate with lenders to ensure proper execution of documents in compliance with all lending requirements.

In Closing...

Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or lender, digital closing options offer exciting opportunities to simplify the real estate process—without sacrificing security or professionalism. At Searchlight Title, we stay up to date on lender requirements and legal standards to offer flexible closing solutions tailored to your needs.

Have questions about which option is right for your next transaction? Our team is here to help guide you every step of the way.