How Can I Become a Notary Signing Agent Specializing in Real Estate?

June 17, 2025

A step-by-step guide to launching your career in

loan signings and real estate closings.

If you’re already a notary public—or thinking about becoming one—you may be wondering how to take your skills further. One great path is becoming a Notary Signing Agent (NSA) who works on real estate closings. Notary Signing Agents handle important loan documents for home purchases, refinances, and other property deals. Lenders, title companies, and escrow officers rely on them to make sure paperwork is signed and notarized correctly. This blog will walk you through what a Notary Signing Agent does, how to get started, and what it takes to build a successful career in real estate signings. 

What Does a Notary Signing Agent Do?

A Notary Signing Agent is a specially trained notary who handles loan document signings. These may include: 

  • Mortgage loans 
  • Refinances 
  • Reverse mortgages 
  • Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) 
  • Buyer/seller packages 


The agent’s job is to: 

  • Confirm the signer’s identity 
  • Guide buyers/sellers through the paperwork 
  • Give a brief description of the documents 
  • Make sure the paperwork is filled out correctly 
  • Notarize required documents 
  • Return the documents promptly to the title or escrow company 

You’ll often meet clients at their homes, offices, or even coffee shops—making it a flexible and mobile job. 

Step 1:

Become a Commissioned Notary Public

Before you can specialize in real estate signings, you need to be a commissioned notary in your state. 

This process usually includes: 

  • Meeting your state’s age and residency requirements 
  • Taking a notary education course (if required) 
  • Passing a notary exam (in some states) 
  • Completing a background check 
  • Submitting an application and paying fees 
  • Purchasing your notary bond (if applicable) 
  • Receiving your notary commission and seal 

Check with your secretary of state for official details. 

Step 2:

Complete Signing Agent Training

Once you’re a notary, the next step is getting trained to become a Notary Signing Agent. 


This training covers:

  • The loan signing process 
  • Common real estate documents 
  • How to explain documents without giving legal advice 
  • Proper procedures for ID checks, signatures, and notarization 
  • Handling signings professionally and securely 

Look for courses from trusted providers like the National Notary Association (NNA) or local notary training groups. Many programs include certification exams, which help build your credibility. 

Step 3:

Pass a Background Check

Most title companies and lenders require NSAs to pass an annual background screening. This check confirms that you have no disqualifying criminal history and can be trusted with sensitive financial data. 


If you use a nationally recognized training provider like the NNA, they have an option to include the background check with your course or certification. 

Step 4:

Build Your Notary Signing Toolkit

To start working as an NSA, you’ll need a few essentials:

  • Notary journal 
  • Ink stamp 
  • Blue Pens 
  • Legal and Letter sized paper 
  • High-speed scanner and laser jet dual tray printer (for printing and returning loan documents) 
  • Reliable transportation 
  • A smartphone with GPS and email 
  • Business cards or a professional website 
  • Errors and Omissions insurance 

Step 5:

Get Listed and Start Marketing

Now it’s time to let people know you’re ready to work. 


Here’s how to market your services:

  • Create a profile on platforms like Snapdocs, SigningOrder, Notary Dash, Notary Everyday and the NNA Directory 
  • Reach out to local notary signing services 
  • Join local networking groups and real estate events 
  • Promote your services on social media and Google Business 

Be sure to highlight your flexibility, reliability, and real estate focus. 

Step 6:

Keep Learning and Growing

The real estate world changes often. Stay sharp by:

  • Taking refresher courses 
  • Staying up-to-date on state notary laws 
  • Tracking industry trends in real estate and lending 
  • Asking for feedback and reviews from clients 

The more you learn, the more confidence and trust you’ll build with signing services and clients.

Step 1: Become a Commissioned Notary Public

Before you can specialize in real estate signings, you need to be a commissioned notary in your state. 

This process usually includes: 

  • Meeting your state’s age and residency requirements 
  • Taking a notary education course (if required) 
  • Passing a notary exam (in some states) 
  • Completing a background check 
  • Submitting an application and paying fees 
  • Purchasing your notary bond (if applicable) 
  • Receiving your notary commission and seal 

Check with your secretary of state for official details. 

Step 2: Complete Signing Agent Training

Once you’re a notary, the next step is getting trained to become a Notary Signing Agent. 


This training covers:

  • The loan signing process 
  • Common real estate documents 
  • How to explain documents without giving legal advice 
  • Proper procedures for ID checks, signatures, and notarization 
  • Handling signings professionally and securely 

Look for courses from trusted providers like the National Notary Association (NNA) or local notary training groups. Many programs include certification exams, which help build your credibility. 

Step 3: Pass a Background Check

Most title companies and lenders require NSAs to pass an annual background screening. This check confirms that you have no disqualifying criminal history and can be trusted with sensitive financial data. 


If you use a nationally recognized training provider like the NNA, they have an option to include the background check with your course or certification. 

Step 4: Build Your Notary Signing Toolkit

To start working as an NSA, you’ll need a few essentials:

  • Notary journal 
  • Ink stamp 
  • Blue Pens 
  • Legal and Letter sized paper 
  • High-speed scanner and laser jet dual tray printer (for printing and returning loan documents) 
  • Reliable transportation 
  • A smartphone with GPS and email 
  • Business cards or a professional website 
  • Errors and Omissions insurance 

Step 5: Get Listed and Start Marketing

Now it’s time to let people know you’re ready to work. 


Here’s how to market your services:

  • Create a profile on platforms like Snapdocs, SigningOrder, Notary Dash, Notary Everyday and the NNA Directory 
  • Reach out to local notary signing services 
  • Join local networking groups and real estate events 
  • Promote your services on social media and Google Business 

Be sure to highlight your flexibility, reliability, and real estate focus. 

Step 6: Keep Learning and Growing

The real estate world changes often. Stay sharp by:

  • Taking refresher courses 
  • Staying up-to-date on state notary laws 
  • Tracking industry trends in real estate and lending 
  • Asking for feedback and reviews from clients 

The more you learn, the more confidence and trust you’ll build with signing services and clients.

Becoming a Notary Signing Agent in real estate is a smart way to grow your notary business. With the right training, tools, and mindset, you can build a career that’s flexible, professional, and in high demand.


Real estate closings happen every day—and trusted signing agents are key to making them happen smoothly.

Share this blog with anyone looking to grow their notary career! Learn how to become a Notary Signing Agent specializing in real estate closings—perfect for new and experienced notaries alike.