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 Dear Signing Agents,
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patricia2001
California
9 Posts |
 Posted - 08/29/2015 : 12:16:37 PM
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Great company to work for. I did a signing for them 8/14/2015. Philipe contacted me today asking for the signed work order. He told me I would have my check by Tuesday! Fast turn around and GREAT customer service by Philipe. Thank you. I will work for you anytime:)
Patricia Stephens |
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pdoren
California
32 Posts |
Posted - 11/01/2013 : 11:04:54 AM
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I think it's about time that an organization set standards on how a notary (3rd party) handles a lenders documents. I work directly with the lender and title companies. It's a compliment when they say, "How do we clone YOU! You never make mistakes"
If you're an experience notary and your title office continues to use you because you get the job done in a professional manner, the new standards should not be a problem.
quote:
Originally posted by LindaH
quote:
Originally posted by pdoren
Diamond Star Notaries is ahead of the curve. Want to join the DSN Network? Visit diamondstarnotaries.com
Join the "Best of the Best" in the industry.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Interesting Article in ALTA News today:
Workgroup Announces New Loan Signing Standards for Notaries October 31, 2013
A special committee of major lenders and title companies called the Signing Professionals Workgroup (SPW) announced the creation of best-practice standards for Notaries handling loan signings.
The committee, which is chaired by Sam Zaki, managing director of sales for First American Mortgage Services, will implement the new Certified Signing Specialist Standards over the coming months and anticipates the roll-out will be completed by mid-2014.
The SPW made the announcement during the 100th Annual MBA Convention & Expo. It established these industry best-practice standards to ensure borrowers have an improved and more consistent customer experience, to comply with federal regulations regarding service providers, and to guarantee that Notaries Public hired to perform mortgage loan signings meet the qualifications of nearly every firm in the real estate finance industry. The SPW tapped the National Notary Association (NNA) as an expert advisor and non-voting member.
“After the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau issued the ‘Service Providers’ Bulletin in April 2012, financial institutions have been held accountable for verifying the credentials of their third-party service providers,” said NNA President and CEO Thomas Heymann. “Until now, there were no consistent or broadly acceptable standards for the Notaries who represent lenders at the signing table.” To achieve Certified Signing Specialist status, Notaries will be required to meet the following standards:
•Adherence to the 10 guiding principles of the Certified Signing Specialist Code of Conduct, which cover signer privacy protection, professionalism, unauthorized advice, services and advertising guidelines as well as reporting illegal or suspicious activity.
•Using a standardized signing script that outlines how a signing should be conducted, how questions can be answered without providing unauthorized advice, and when contacting the lender or title company is necessary.
•A passing score on an annual exam covering the signing script, knowledge of loan documents and best practices outlined in the Code of Conduct. Exams will be administered over the coming months by SPW-approved providers after the committee establishes a vendor review process and licenses qualified companies.
•Passing a rigorous annual background screening including searches in state, local and federal records.
•Maintaining Notary errors and omissions insurance of $25,000.
What is your stand/opinion on this new "Workgroup" and their "Code of Conduct?
Linda
http://www.columbiacountynotary.webs.com
http://www.notary.net/websites/LindaHubbell
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LindaH
Florida
1754 Posts |
Posted - 11/01/2013 : 07:49:35 AM
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quote:
Originally posted by pdoren
Diamond Star Notaries is ahead of the curve. Want to join the DSN Network? Visit diamondstarnotaries.com
Join the "Best of the Best" in the industry.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Interesting Article in ALTA News today:
Workgroup Announces New Loan Signing Standards for Notaries October 31, 2013
A special committee of major lenders and title companies called the Signing Professionals Workgroup (SPW) announced the creation of best-practice standards for Notaries handling loan signings.
The committee, which is chaired by Sam Zaki, managing director of sales for First American Mortgage Services, will implement the new Certified Signing Specialist Standards over the coming months and anticipates the roll-out will be completed by mid-2014.
The SPW made the announcement during the 100th Annual MBA Convention & Expo. It established these industry best-practice standards to ensure borrowers have an improved and more consistent customer experience, to comply with federal regulations regarding service providers, and to guarantee that Notaries Public hired to perform mortgage loan signings meet the qualifications of nearly every firm in the real estate finance industry. The SPW tapped the National Notary Association (NNA) as an expert advisor and non-voting member.
“After the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau issued the ‘Service Providers’ Bulletin in April 2012, financial institutions have been held accountable for verifying the credentials of their third-party service providers,” said NNA President and CEO Thomas Heymann. “Until now, there were no consistent or broadly acceptable standards for the Notaries who represent lenders at the signing table.” To achieve Certified Signing Specialist status, Notaries will be required to meet the following standards:
•Adherence to the 10 guiding principles of the Certified Signing Specialist Code of Conduct, which cover signer privacy protection, professionalism, unauthorized advice, services and advertising guidelines as well as reporting illegal or suspicious activity.
•Using a standardized signing script that outlines how a signing should be conducted, how questions can be answered without providing unauthorized advice, and when contacting the lender or title company is necessary.
•A passing score on an annual exam covering the signing script, knowledge of loan documents and best practices outlined in the Code of Conduct. Exams will be administered over the coming months by SPW-approved providers after the committee establishes a vendor review process and licenses qualified companies.
•Passing a rigorous annual background screening including searches in state, local and federal records.
•Maintaining Notary errors and omissions insurance of $25,000.
What is your stand/opinion on this new "Workgroup" and their "Code of Conduct?
Linda
http://www.columbiacountynotary.webs.com
http://www.notary.net/websites/LindaHubbell |
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pdoren
California
32 Posts |
Posted - 10/31/2013 : 6:45:48 PM
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I just wanted to clarify a couple items.
*Payment for services rendered.
Payment is received after the file close's. I have no reason to have payment terms of 30-60+ days. You performed a service. You deserve to be compensated as quickly as possible.
*FEE's
Any fees quoted should benefit YOU the notary and DSN.
I can usually request additional fees if the HUD has not been approved. The extra fees would apply to printing copies. I never understood why fax-backs were necessary. If the title office requires that service, they will pay for that administrative cost. I have no reason to micro manage your skills as a notary. You should know how to handle a signing. Right?
Base fee's? Each escrow will have a different scenario. So you can expect anything from $110 to $125+ with printing. All signings are negotiable. If you're handling an in-office signing, the fee may be as low as $60 if you're at a title office. Most of us are mobile, so the fees will be much higher.
*Volume Business vs Negotiated Lower Fees ???
I would NEVER ask you to reduce your fees just because I was giving you volume business. When I refer to volume business, that means that if you're consistently delivering quality sign-offs, I'm likely to give you more business. I'm all about providing quality customer service.
*Support availability during a signing or after hours?
I will be available 24x7. During regular business hours I may also be in a sign-off. I suggest you send me a text to ask if I'm available. I can reply immediately or state that I will call you back in 5 minutes.
*Taking calls during a signing?
Please limit the calls to your cell during a sign-off. The only calls that are acceptable would be from the title officer, loan agent or DSN.
I hope this helps answer some questions & concerns. Please feel free to ask a question. Don't forget to visit my website and complete the application.
Philipe
President, Diamond Star Notaries
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pdoren
California
32 Posts |
Posted - 10/31/2013 : 5:19:38 PM
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Diamond Star Notaries is ahead of the curve. Want to join the DSN Network? Visit diamondstarnotaries.com
Join the "Best of the Best" in the industry.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Interesting Article in ALTA News today:
Workgroup Announces New Loan Signing Standards for Notaries October 31, 2013
A special committee of major lenders and title companies called the Signing Professionals Workgroup (SPW) announced the creation of best-practice standards for Notaries handling loan signings.
The committee, which is chaired by Sam Zaki, managing director of sales for First American Mortgage Services, will implement the new Certified Signing Specialist Standards over the coming months and anticipates the roll-out will be completed by mid-2014.
The SPW made the announcement during the 100th Annual MBA Convention & Expo. It established these industry best-practice standards to ensure borrowers have an improved and more consistent customer experience, to comply with federal regulations regarding service providers, and to guarantee that Notaries Public hired to perform mortgage loan signings meet the qualifications of nearly every firm in the real estate finance industry. The SPW tapped the National Notary Association (NNA) as an expert advisor and non-voting member.
“After the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau issued the ‘Service Providers’ Bulletin in April 2012, financial institutions have been held accountable for verifying the credentials of their third-party service providers,” said NNA President and CEO Thomas Heymann. “Until now, there were no consistent or broadly acceptable standards for the Notaries who represent lenders at the signing table.” To achieve Certified Signing Specialist status, Notaries will be required to meet the following standards:
•Adherence to the 10 guiding principles of the Certified Signing Specialist Code of Conduct, which cover signer privacy protection, professionalism, unauthorized advice, services and advertising guidelines as well as reporting illegal or suspicious activity.
•Using a standardized signing script that outlines how a signing should be conducted, how questions can be answered without providing unauthorized advice, and when contacting the lender or title company is necessary.
•A passing score on an annual exam covering the signing script, knowledge of loan documents and best practices outlined in the Code of Conduct. Exams will be administered over the coming months by SPW-approved providers after the committee establishes a vendor review process and licenses qualified companies.
•Passing a rigorous annual background screening including searches in state, local and federal records.
•Maintaining Notary errors and omissions insurance of $25,000.
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pdoren
California
32 Posts |
Posted - 10/27/2013 : 1:03:40 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by LindaH
So what is your fee for a standard refi, edocs, no faxbacks
Rates will vary depending on how much I can get from the title officer. If the HUD is not approved before they contact me, I should be able to get more. It is an estimated HUD. Sometimes courier fees are less,etc.
I feel $100 is a good appropriate for a standard refi, edocs w/no faxbacks. By the way, scanned docs are preferred. So if you don't have a scanner you should invest in one. Most 3 in 1 systems have a scan feature.
WE may agree on a fee for one particular signoff, and then we may agree to a higher fee on another. Don't settle on a standard fee for each signing. I'm not about gouging a notary for services rendered. But I do have to work with my clients HUD. Based on my relationship with the EO, I usually can get a higher fee that will be beneficial for you and my SS.
Philipe
Linda
http://www.columbiacountynotary.webs.com
http://www.notary.net/websites/LindaHubbell
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pdoren
California
32 Posts |
Posted - 10/27/2013 : 12:42:13 PM
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I'm on my 3rd commission in CA. I worked with a few SS for the first 3 months before realizing they were not the type of business's to work with. I knew there was a smarter way to run my business. I had and still have a business plan. You must have a plan in order to succeed. When I left ended my full time showbiz career, I new I had to learn what high tech had to offer and how I could apply the knowledge to market my skills. I worked in high tech for 15yrs before staring my notary career. My showbiz & business background in a corporate job was a great learning experience. I had a 6 figure salary. I left that career because with my human resource background, I realize they could give your walking orders anytime. It was sad to see so many great employees/friends packing up their offices and they never expected to be fired (RIF'd) in a mass lay off. People get so used to working in one line of work and they never seem to have a life outside of a corporate job. Even while I was in high tech, I have several other money making opportunities. I like multitasking and it worked for me. But honestly, I believe the terror attack on 9/11 had a HUGE impact on me. I was booked on "THE" flight, but decide to take a train into NYC the night before. On 9/11 I was going to be in the first tower to send out email to my high tech staff. I delayed leaving my apartment! Thank all the Angels that were watching over me. I was watching everything from the apartment and saw the 2nd plane hit the tower. You'll have to read my book.. but those events really made a huge impact on me. I live everyday to the best of my ability and I maintain a very high standard of integrity when it comes to business and personal friendships. OK, No more preaching!!!
quote:
Originally posted by 007Notary
Phillipe, I see that you are eager to build a reputable signing business, and it sounds as if you are better prepared to run a day and night business than most of those before you who have recently shut their doors before paying their notaries, but continuing to live their lavish lifestyles. Some, not all, are notaries themselves. This is why we're having a difficult time getting around the lack of integrity by these ill intentioned SS companies (ie, continuing to take orders from title/escrow knowing they won't pay notaries, and title and escrow claim they are held harmless, already paid for the closing, not responsible, and they are completely aware of the SS's bad reputation and nonpayment issues!). And you know what, these owners aren't even nice people to deal with, they swear at you, hang up on you, deliver insults, all the while stuffing the money in their pockets, traveling to Cancun, getting breast implants (at least we you won't be having this procedure!), moving into a $2500 a month residence with all new home furnishings! It's MADNESS and such bad form! If you've been reading about these companies, you'll know what I'm talking about. I've been on 123Notary since the start of my career as a notary and I've followed the FORUM. I observed the communications but rarely took the time to add a comment. I decided that NOW IS THE TIME to join the FORUM and announce my SS. One owner has a conviction for ID fraud and forgery, and managed to get in the door of at least two Escrow/Title companies without a BGS. Giving her exposure to not only notaries' SSNs, home addresses, etc., but borrowers' financial and personal information, job and home information, all under everyone's noses. Finally she lost her accounts due to nonpayment of notaries and poor business management.
There's a HUGE responsibility keeping in being the keeper of so much confidential information. Anyone abusing that responsibility deserves to be convicted. I don't need the bad KARMA!
How long have you been a notary public/NSA? Have you ever worked for a deadbeat SS company, did you get stiffed for your signing fee? Not nice to be duped, then not paid. Some notaries are owed $1000s for unpaid fees. These notaries have filed complaints with the Riverside County and San Diego County DA's office.
I doubt these unpaid notaries will ever recover their fees, but maybe, just maybe, the SS owners' future livelihoods in the next scams will be scrutinized. They've made such names for themselves, no one will ever forget them for their notorious, infamous business tactics and fraud against notaries.
With your vast experience, maybe you could help us with a plan on how to collect unpaid notary fees from these shysters who say they are declaring BK, but can't. They've already done it in the last 7 years, and it's too soon to file again. I always got paid for my services rendered. There were a few SS's that tried to get away without paying but you would be surprised on how quickly I got paid when lawyers get involved. Fortunately that are no longer in business.
Yes, I can make suggestions on how to go after an SS but I don't have time at the moment. My advise is just be persistent and have all your documentation.
The one common thread I see in the SS business is that owners see the opportunity to string notaries along for a few months, paying these notaries, and not on time either, then one day very abruptly they quit paying, stop answering the phone or disconnect the phone, fax, and website, continue stuffing their pockets with fees from escrow and title, and move around town to escape future contact with notaries. We all know where they live, and notaries can only hope they don't get back into this business. That will NEVER be the case with my SS. I'm not about to spend my time and effort to start up this new service, only to leave anyone out in the cold. I have always had an open door policy in my careers. You need to talk, I'm open to speaking as long as you get on my calendar. Come prepared to speak about an issue(s) and I'm sure we'll end the meeting satisfied with a plan to resolve your concerns.
THIS IS WHY ALL NEW SS COMPANIES WILL COME UNDER CLOSE SCRUTINY GOING FORWARD. Prudent notaries are beginning to institute an upfront payment via PayPal or CC, or pass on the "opportunity". There are some great tools for accepting CC payments. I'm about to use a CC reader as well and my clients will be informed that a service fee may apply. If we have to pay a service fee at an ATM or other location, when not include a service fee when we provide a service to our clients?
We are all real clear about where the business is. I've been a notary for 40 years, on my 11th commission. I've worked primarily for high performing ROCKSTAR escrow and loan officers. The refi business is practically nil. Mostly purchases and sales, 1031 exchanges, commercial refis are the files we see these days.
Unlike many new notaries, I don't sit around waiting for the next deadbeat SS to call me because I am simply too busy to be taken advantage of like this. I still get calls from many SS's and it's always interesting to hear what they have to offer. If they sound shady and can't answer 3 basic questions, I tell them that they have 15 seconds of my time. Make me an offer I can't refuse! I usually tell them they reached the right person, but I'll pass for the moment. It's the usual low fees, last minute print jobs, etc. It's all been posted within the FORUM. Many notaries do not know how to market themselves, this is a part time gig and they are working for the scalpers at $50 a head, not getting paid for up to 90 days, if at all.
The SS gig has become one of the industry's dirtiest little secrets, and several title/escrow companies are aiding and abetting the perpetrators. It is scandalous. We want to make a change! How do we regulate these people, and how do we make them act with integrity and honor? It's an uphill battle since each state has different laws. I believe anything is possible, with a lot of work, et.
At least one title/escrow company I am aware of is wined and dined by this deadbeat signing service owner and that is why they continue to send orders to this owner. As you know, title/escrow companies and its employees may not legally accept gifts of any kind in exchange for services. But who is watching the store? No one who cares enough.
Obviously that company hasn't had anyone report them to their state Attorney General. IT IS NOT LEGAL!
Most sincerely,
Cheryl Elliott
Santa Barbara, CA
(sorry NEVER APOLOGIZE! to make you repeat yourself about your biz license, etc. I got in late after a long day having started it at 5am.)
007Notary
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007Notary
California
92 Posts |
Posted - 10/27/2013 : 09:13:18 AM
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Phillipe, I see that you are eager to build a reputable signing business, and it sounds as if you are better prepared to run a day and night business than most of those before you who have recently shut their doors before paying their notaries, but continuing to live their lavish lifestyles. Some, not all, are notaries themselves. This is why we're having a difficult time getting around the lack of integrity by these ill intentioned SS companies (ie, continuing to take orders from title/escrow knowing they won't pay notaries, and title and escrow claim they are held harmless, already paid for the closing, not responsible, and they are completely aware of the SS's bad reputation and nonpayment issues!). And you know what, these owners aren't even nice people to deal with, they swear at you, hang up on you, deliver insults, all the while stuffing the money in their pockets, traveling to Cancun, getting breast implants (at least we you won't be having this procedure!), moving into a $2500 a month residence with all new home furnishings! It's MADNESS and such bad form! If you've been reading about these companies, you'll know what I'm talking about. One owner has a conviction for ID fraud and forgery, and managed to get in the door of at least two Escrow/Title companies without a BGS. Giving her exposure to not only notaries' SSNs, home addresses, etc., but borrowers' financial and personal information, job and home information, all under everyone's noses. Finally she lost her accounts due to nonpayment of notaries and poor business management.
How long have you been a notary public/NSA? Have you ever worked for a deadbeat SS company, did you get stiffed for your signing fee? Not nice to be duped, then not paid. Some notaries are owed $1000s for unpaid fees. These notaries have filed complaints with the Riverside County and San Diego County DA's office.
I doubt these unpaid notaries will ever recover their fees, but maybe, just maybe, the SS owners' future livelihoods in the next scams will be scrutinized. They've made such names for themselves, no one will ever forget them for their notorious, infamous business tactics and fraud against notaries.
With your vast experience, maybe you could help us with a plan on how to collect unpaid notary fees from these shysters who say they are declaring BK, but can't. They've already done it in the last 7 years, and it's too soon to file again.
The one common thread I see in the SS business is that owners see the opportunity to string notaries along for a few months, paying these notaries, and not on time either, then one day very abruptly they quit paying, stop answering the phone or disconnect the phone, fax, and website, continue stuffing their pockets with fees from escrow and title, and move around town to escape future contact with notaries. We all know where they live, and notaries can only hope they don't get back into this business.
THIS IS WHY ALL NEW SS COMPANIES WILL COME UNDER CLOSE SCRUTINY GOING FORWARD. Prudent notaries are beginning to institute an upfront payment via PayPal or CC, or pass on the "opportunity".
We are all real clear about where the business is. I've been a notary for 40 years, on my 11th commission. I've worked primarily for high performing ROCKSTAR escrow and loan officers. The refi business is practically nil. Mostly purchases and sales, 1031 exchanges, commercial refis are the files we see these days.
Unlike many new notaries, I don't sit around waiting for the next deadbeat SS to call me because I am simply too busy to be taken advantage of like this. Many notaries do not know how to market themselves, this is a part time gig and they are working for the scalpers at $50 a head, not getting paid for up to 90 days, if at all.
The SS gig has become one of the industry's dirtiest little secrets, and several title/escrow companies are aiding and abetting the perpetrators. It is scandalous. We want to make a change! How do we regulate these people, and how do we make them act with integrity and honor?
At least one title/escrow company I am aware of is wined and dined by this deadbeat signing service owner and that is why they continue to send orders to this owner. As you know, title/escrow companies and its employees may not legally accept gifts of any kind in exchange for services. But who is watching the store? No one who cares enough.
Most sincerely,
Cheryl Elliott
Santa Barbara, CA
(sorry to make you repeat yourself about your biz license, etc. I got in late after a long day having started it at 5am.)
007Notary |
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LindaH
Florida
1754 Posts |
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pdoren
California
32 Posts |
Posted - 10/26/2013 : 11:43:01 PM
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007Notary:
Thanks for the questions and feedback. The volume I mentioned was the amount of work I can share with my network of notaries. You are paid for your time and effort. Just because I use your services on a regular basis, doesn't mean that your fees are reduced because I've given you volume business.
quote:
Originally posted by 007Notary
Thank you for your response to my questions. One thing I'd like to let you know about. Most professional notaries who I consider my peers loathe the word VOLUME. Just because signing services can negotiate fees for larger VOLUMES of signings with their clients, does not mean this VOLUME does much for individual NSAs. Actually, we regard VOLUME is more work for less pay,(Not the case when you work with my SS) so this is not much of a marketing pitch for us. I would prefer to work for my regular clients who pay fairly for the scope of work on every assignment. We're not interested in any volume. I agree
I just read the ripoff report posted here. Do you have any comments about this event that you'd like to tell NSA's about? I'll respond to that RIPOFF Report at the end of this reply.
Just to be clear, in the last couple of years, we've learned that many SS owners have vested themselves in fancy, high rent residences, expensive vehicles, international vacations, personal body enhancements and house fulls of new furnishings on the backs of notaries, with nary a glance or wince of guilt. So we're on pretty heightened alert about who we consider working for. Hummm, so where do I start without sounding like the other SS Owners. I plan to post a bio within my website soon. In the rush to get it completed, I forgot to add "About ME!" to the site. So bare with me..
I already had the material possessions you mentioned, prior to becoming a notary public. I was in theatre for over 25 years. I traveled around the world as an actor and jack of all trades in showbiz. I speak several languages and I'm still in theatre as a part time voice over actor. I've had several business ventures. All successful but very time consuming. My current career as a notary public allows me to do all the other money making hobbies on a part time basis. I'm a designer in several medias. Landscape, interior design, set design, blahblah. I exercise and train horses on weekends. There aren't enough hours in the day to do the things I plan, but I manage my time well and it works for me. Yes, I function on 4-5hrs sleep. Thanks all I need. Reinventing myself is a welcomed challenge. In my spare time, I'm writing several books on my life adventures.
I own my Victorian home, my 2013 Benz and all the luxury items possible. All before I started working in the industry. So, unless someone is going to make me an offer to become the next Donald Trump... you and anyone working with me, have nothing to worry about.
BTW, I know Mr. Trump.
Do you have a fictitious business name statement, business license, how much E&O, etc. I have a business license with the city of San Jose, CA. And if you viewed my website, you will see that I have always maintained $1M E/O as an independent notary.
NOW!!! Back to that silly RIP OFF REPORT!
It's a long story and I'm posting this now, so anyone else that might read the report will know my side of the situation. I have spoken with Mr. Belmont from 123Notary and he choose to post that remark prior to getting my version of the story. Guess he felt the need to be the judge and jury and decided that I was GUILTY... go figure...hahah.....
In 2007, I was handling back to back buyer closings at a large title office. The developer had 350 units to close. I was the only notary capable of getting the sign-offs done without error. As a notary, you know that we are only there to witness the docs signed and dated by the client. We are not loan offices, closers or title professionals. When we meet our clients, 90% of the time the loan officer/realtor/lender representative is not present. So we are expected to explain why the credits that were expected are not indicated in the estimated closing statement (HUD).
This buyer came to her scheduled signing 20 minutes late. WE had a lobby full of buyers waiting to sign their purchase docs. The escrow officer reminded the buyer that we were on a very tight schedule. Since she was late, we recommended she reschedule for another time. She said she could sign in 30 minutes. So we agreed to allow her to sit down and begin signing her documents. Unfortunately, she was a reader and her loan officer, realtor and lender were not present. The escrow officer insisted she sign quickly and since she needed to bring in funds to close, she could take her copy home over the weekend to read. We offered to meet with her again on Monday or we asked her to contact her broker to find out why credits were not applied as promised. She passed on the additional meeting.
For some reason she felt that I should have addressed why the credits were not applied. Even the EO showed her the closing instructions and no additional credits were provided. Credits can't be applied if the lender instructions don't reflect additional credits available to the buyer.
REMINDER: The sole purpose of the Notary is to acknowledge the signing of the documents. Too many Realtors/Lenders/Loan Officers dump the transaction on the EO and the Notary. The client blames the wrong person(s) when something goes wrong. Any client should insist that their representative be present in the closing process for the protection of their interests. Unfortunately this buyer was misinformed on who was responsible to her.
Fast forward to 2010 and this buyer filed a complaint on the RipOff Report site. I shared this report with all my VP Clients and we all agreed that I would never treat a client in the manner she described.
I had my attorney write to her and asked her to stop and desist writing derogatory remarks about me. The matter was handled and it was unfortunate the buyer didn't have proper representation at the time of her signing the purchase documents.
Now back to Mr. Belmont! We bumped heads on this complaint and I agree, this is his forum and if he chooses to post erroneous information, so be it! I never lost sleep over this. I don't have time to waste on someones bad judgement. Give the guy a cookie and a glass of milk?
Sooooo, I hope this puts this to rest for anyone that might read the same report.
Thank you for your amplification of your business model.
007Notary
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007Notary
California
92 Posts |
Posted - 10/26/2013 : 8:41:36 PM
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Thank you for your response to my questions. One thing I'd like to let you know about. Most professional notaries who I consider my peers loathe the word VOLUME. Just because signing services can negotiate fees for larger VOLUMES of signings with their clients, does not mean this VOLUME does much for individual NSAs. Actually, we regard VOLUME is more work for less pay, so this is not much of a marketing pitch for us. I would prefer to work for my regular clients who pay fairly for the scope of work on every assignment. We're not interested in any volume.
I just read the ripoff report posted here. Do you have any comments about this event that you'd like to tell NSA's about?
Just to be clear, in the last couple of years, we've learned that many SS owners have vested themselves in fancy, high rent residences, expensive vehicles, international vacations, personal body enhancements and house fulls of new furnishings on the backs of notaries, with nary a glance or wince of guilt. So we're on pretty heightened alert about who we consider working for.
Do you have a fictitious business name statement, business license, how much E&O, etc.
Thank you for your amplification of your business model.
007Notary |
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pdoren
California
32 Posts |
Posted - 10/26/2013 : 10:35:26 AM
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Hello 007Notary..
I guess I've been smart about marketing and networking. I have so many partners that continue to use me even despite the slow down. Often times, they've asked for my assistance finding someone in other territories that I personally can't handle. I have other non-mortage clients that I work with. Even though my commission is for CA, my clients are across the country.
quote:
Originally posted by 007Notary
I am also wondering what has prompted your to begin a startup signing service in a very sluggish lending market, primarily consisting of purchase and sale transactions. I've done this work for 13 years full time, and I've never seen things so slow.
What prompted me to start the service? So many E/O's have been released and they are out of work. Why not put them to work? No training and they need the business just as much as we do, right?
I have currently employed E/O's that want to work for me on the weekends.
What do you know that we don't know?
Philipe, I wish you success, but understand notaries across the US are getting burned big time by companies with:
No working capital
I only worked with other signing service companies when I first started. I was burned too, so I hear what you're saying.
No physical address disclosure.
I purposely did NOT post my address within my website. The sites available to the general public. I don't want anyone to walk up to my office without an appointment. I'm mobile and rarely have anyone come to my physical address. All industry professionals (notaries included) will know my address when they are approved.
No ability to pay their notaries in a timely manner
My agreement clearly states that I will pay as soon as the file closes and as soon as my company receives payment for services rendered. I will not have a 30-45-60+ hold on getting notaries paid. That's ridiculous to have someone worry about not getting paid for services rendered.
No ethics
My reputation and professionalism speaks for itself. I expect the same from my notaries. No one can be more ethical than me... call me anal? YOU BETTER NOT... (wink)
Collect the money and run. Stiff the notaries.
There will NEVER be a problem regarding payment for your service.
You will have a work order with the client information and agreed fee.
I will send out an email or text when you check is in the mail. I will expect a reply stating payment received.
A good many people have been burned in the last couple of years. You can understand our hesitation in signing up with a company with little or no information about how we would be able to collect our money if you don't/can't pay.
All of the information will be on my agreement.
One last mention: Fees are based on my clients volume. If the HUD is approved and the fee is less than desired, you don't have to take the assignment. My clients pay me slightly higher fees when possible, because they know I will not make any errors. It's about quality and NOT quantity. When your level of quality is great, then you can increase your quantity. But if the quality starts to suffer, decrease the quantity. I've always strive for QUALITY.
007Notary
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pdoren
California
32 Posts |
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pdoren
California
32 Posts |
Posted - 10/26/2013 : 10:04:50 AM
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LindaH:
If you are using IE... you might have to key in http://diamondstarnotaries.com
I just checked to confirm that it can be found using either Firefox or IE...
*In answer to your questions: WHY NOT start a new venture? I believe the market will pick up. WE are notaries and relying on loan signings alone is not the key to success. The general public always needs a notary public.
*Am I registered in the State of CA? I'm headqtred in San Jose, so YES, I do have a business license.
*I've always maintained $1M E/O and it is a blanket policy, but I require notaries in my network to have a minimum of $100K.
* "Am I a notary?" Hummm, YES! If I've handled more than 25K signings, I guess that should indicate I'm commissioned in the State of CA. (wink)
I hope that answers your questions.
Thanks for the inquiry...
quote:
Originally posted by LindaH
So with IE, one cannot view your website? IE refuses to connect to it - says can't be found or forbidden.
I am curious why, in this down economy and slowed-down industry, you'd choose to begin a new signing service at this time. I'd also like to know:
1. Are you registered with the State of CA?
2. How much E&O or professional liability insurance do you carry and is it an umbrella policy to afford coverage to your notaries?
3. Are YOU a notary?
Just some quick thoughts until I can access your website.
Linda
http://www.columbiacountynotary.webs.com
http://www.notary.net/websites/LindaHubbell
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LindaH
Florida
1754 Posts |
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007Notary
California
92 Posts |
Posted - 10/26/2013 : 07:46:43 AM
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I am also wondering what has prompted your to begin a startup signing service in a very sluggish lending market, primarily consisting of purchase and sale transactions. I've done this work for 13 years full time, and I've never seen things so slow.
What do you know that we don't know?
Philipe, I wish you success, but understand notaries across the US are getting burned big time by companies with:
No working capital
No physical address disclosure
No ability to pay their notaries in a timely manner
No ethics
Collect the money and run. Stiff the notaries.
A good many people have been burned in the last couple of years. You can understand our hesitation in signing up with a company with little or no information about how we would be able to collect our money if you don't/can't pay.
007Notary |
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LindaH
Florida
1754 Posts |
Posted - 10/26/2013 : 07:30:42 AM
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So with IE, one cannot view your website? IE refuses to connect to it - says can't be found or forbidden.
I am curious why, in this down economy and slowed-down industry, you'd choose to begin a new signing service at this time. I'd also like to know:
1. Are you registered with the State of CA?
2. How much E&O or professional liability insurance do you carry and is it an umbrella policy to afford coverage to your notaries?
3. Are YOU a notary?
Just some quick thoughts until I can access your website.
Linda
http://www.columbiacountynotary.webs.com
http://www.notary.net/websites/LindaHubbell |
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pdoren
California
32 Posts |
Posted - 10/25/2013 : 10:12:13 PM
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My name is Philipe C. Doren and I'm the President of a NEW nationwide signing service. The company name is Diamond Star Notaries.
I've been in the business for 12 years and I personally have handled more than 25,000 signings. Since the market has taken a dramatic downturn, I've decided to start my nationwide signing service by request. My commission is for CA, but I've been working with industry professionals throughout the USA. I've managed to succeed due to my marketing and networking.
If you're interested in joining my network, please go to my website and complete the application. If you meet the requirements, I'll follow up with an agreement that must be signed prior to taking an assignment.
If you use Firefox you can find my website at: diamondstarnotaries.com
Select the first link that reflects: Come to Diamond Star Notaries
So what makes DSN different than other signing services? I've been in the "field" so I know how important it is to get paid for "our time". You'll get paid when the file closes and not 30-45-60 days like some other companies. You can expect a faster turn around getting paid for your efforts.
Please send your inquiry to via email to philipe@diamondstarnotaries.com
I'll reply via email after I've received your initial application.
Thank you in advance for the inquiry. Once approved, you'll be joining the "Best of the Best" in the industry.
If you send an email without first completing the application, you will not get a reply. I should be able to respond within a 24hr period.
Thanks for your cooperation.
Philipe C. Doren, President
Diamond Star Notaries
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