There is an amazing feature within SureClose that will allow "general - access" users to annotate documents. The document needs to be filed on SureClose in a TIFF format. If the document is loaded in a PDF format, you can change it to a TIFF by using the SureClose upload option (this will be my next post). Once the document has been formatted as a TIFF, the annotation tool bar should appear in the upper left hand corner. If you do not see the full tool bar, you will probably see a small icon in the corner that looks like a crossed hammer and wrench. If you click on that, it should expand to show the full tool bar. There are some great features on this tool bar. You can now type transparent text on the document, text with a yellow background (to make your note stand out and look like a sticky note), draw a line through the document, create arrows to point as specifics within the document, highlight, circle items, etc. I encourage you to play around and experiment with each tool to see what works best for you. Here are some ways that we use the annotations on a regular basis that have come in handy:
•1) We are able to load in the client's estimated closing statement and loan documents for their review prior to signing. We can highlight key items on the closing statement and include typed explanations. I love being able to load in the buyer's promissory note and then highlight loan amount, interest rate, first payment date, payment amount, interest change dates, margin, interest cap, etc. This is a great way to make sure the loan is drawn correctly and the client understands it prior to them going to the title company to sign. We have had several transactions with the buyer out of town and a relative with a power of attorney signing on their behalf. Now, the client can review the documents easily prior to the assigned relative signing the documents for them.
•2) Our agents can review and make notes for the transaction team on inspection reports. Now, they have a record in their file that they have reviewed each inspection report; the client can see their notes and recommendations on the reports if they choose, and the team has written instructions from the agent for any repair requests that should be prepared.
•3) If there are documents that parties need to sign, we can add arrows to indicate the places that the documents should be acknowledged. We can accomplish this with the document remaining on line, in the agent's file...no paper!
•4) When we review preliminary title reports, we can highlight any outstanding liens, judgments, or taxes so that the escrow officer can see them quickly to make sure no payments are missed when preparing the estimated closing statement.
If you truly want to remain paperless, but you want to have the freedom to review documents and make notes within you file, this is one of the most outstanding features within SureClose. If you have any questions, any one of us at Realt-eTransAct would be happy to help you. I hope this helps!
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