As a Loan Signing Agent, I’ve witnessed countless real estate signing ceremonies. One recent experience stands out as a powerful reminder of the critical importance of due diligence in real estate transactions. I was called to notarize real estate documents for a property sale. What started as a routine signing turned into a near-disaster when the seller, reviewing the settlement statement, questioned a small $35 fee. This led to a deeper examination of the documents, revealing a shocking discovery: the parcels being sold were not the ones the seller intended to part with, but rather the portions of his farm he wished to keep, including his home! This potentially catastrophic mistake was identified just in time, all due to a sharp focus on a minor fee. Here are key takeaways from this incident:

1. Review Every Detail: No matter how small, every item on a legal document deserves scrutiny.
2. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to seek clarification on any point of confusion during property transactions.
3. Verify Information: Cross-check details with multiple sources, including contracts and personal records.
4. Take Your Time: Rushing through document signing can lead to costly mistakes in real estate deals.

As a Notary Public, my role is to ensure the proper execution of documents, but the responsibility of understanding what’s being signed lies with the signers. I always encourage clients to thoroughly review all real estate documents before signing. This incident serves as a stark reminder: Real Estate due diligence isn’t just advisable in real estate transactions—it’s essential. A few extra review minutes can save years of legal battles and financial stress.