Put up or Shut up (say Title, Escrow or Signing Service)
I write this from the viewpoint of the Title, Escrow, Signing Service, etc. I am looking for a reasonably priced, no hassle, dependable Notary. I want a Notary that I can depend on to do the job right, taking up a minimum amount of my time. Our firm processes many projects concurrently, and my time is better spent talking to my clients than to a Notary. A fast way to my “do not call list” is to needlessly waste my time.
As I look thru the notes sections on http://123notary.com I see much self praise. Most Notaries seem to have a very high opinion of themselves, usually “backed up” by fuzzy, unsubstantiated claims to perfection. I’m not a “bottom fisher” – we generally pay $150 for edocs, and expect to receive a package that is useable, without corrections; or having to FAX to our borrower. We pay fast and often; understanding that Notaries appreciate prompt payment.
Our firm prefers to use a select few reliable Notaries. Occasionally, we need to add a name to the list. That’s one of the hardest aspects of my job. Selecting a representative that truly embodies our standard of excellence is my responsibility. My clients see ME when the Notary arrives. It is my reputation, and commission that are “on the line”.
Talk is cheap. If you want to impress me, show me the money. Put your fee “at risk”. Offer me a total guarantee of perfection. That does impress me. I frequently select a Notary who offers me a total guarantee that the package will be perfect. For that Notary I’m willing to sweeten the fee with extra incentive pay. It’s no secret that some projects are very much more important to me than others. My “key clients” must, really must; receive royal treatment. We both know the Notary fee is generally trivial compared to my commission. But even more important is for me to maintain my clients trust. An extra $50 won’t break me; it’s worth it for the right Notary.
If you really are the Notary Super Star you claim to be; put it in writing. Tell me how you triple check the package. Let me read the many positive reviews posted about you. Then, to clinch the deal; offer me your “flawless” guarantee. I pay more than most. But, I want a partner with a vested interest; not just a “hired hand”. I know, there are dozens of ways to have a “flaw” in the documents. It’s not complex; but does require the ability to pay attention to detail.
For Notaries on our really exclusive “error free” list; we make some concessions. We need to know that you are happy to receive our call and will perform to a very high standard. It’s part of our business model that some deals don’t fund; and, if you made no error it’s not your fault; nor will it affect your pay. After a few routine, or one high priority assignment, you are on the list. We take the “no flaw” aspect very seriously. Miss an initial on page eleven of the Mortgage and you fall from grace forever; no second chance, no check will be sent; never to be called again. We will FAX you the error in lieu of a paycheck.
Our terms are harsh, our standards are very high; and our pay is over industry standard. Like I said, don’t waste either my or your time. Unless you are confident you can deliver a flawless package every time – work for someone else. But, if, you are “that good” – we will treat you with the respect you deserve; and welcome you as a partner; not “just a Notary”.
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