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October 20, 2023

How to Make More Money as a Notary

Filed under: Notary Fees & Pricing — Tags: — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

Becoming a notary is not just about signing documents; it’s a versatile profession that offers numerous opportunities to increase your income. Whether you’re a seasoned notary or just starting your journey, various strategies exist to make more money in this field. In this blog post, we’ll explore ways to make more money as a notary, from traditional methods to modern, innovative approaches.

Offer Mobile Notary Services

One of the most effective ways to make more money as a notary is by offering mobile notary services. You can take your services to them instead of waiting for clients to come. Mobile notaries travel to clients’ homes, businesses, or other locations, providing convenience and flexibility. This service is particularly valuable for clients with busy schedules or mobility issues.

Specialize in Loan Signings

Loan signings are a lucrative niche within the notary business. When individuals or businesses secure loans or mortgages, they often require a notary to witness and authenticate the signing of important documents. By specializing in loan signings, you can tap into a consistent source of income, as these transactions are common and typically well-paid.

Become a Remote Online Notary (RON)

In today’s digital age, remote online notarization (RON) has become increasingly popular. RON allows you to notarize documents online, making it convenient for clients who can’t meet in person. To become a RON, you must complete the necessary training and obtain the required technology. While the initial setup may require an investment, it opens up a wide range of highly profitable online notarization opportunities.

Offer Field Inspection Services

Beyond notarization, consider expanding your services to include field inspections. Field inspectors assess properties, verify information, and collect data on behalf of clients. This additional service can supplement your income and provide a unique selling point to attract new clients.

Network and Build Client Relationships

Building a strong network and maintaining good client relationships is crucial for making more money as a notary. Word of mouth and repeat business can significantly impact your income. Stay in touch with previous clients, attend local business events, and consider joining professional notary associations to expand your network.

Market Your Notary Business Online

In the digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for attracting clients. Create a professional website, optimize it for search engines, and promote your notary services on social media platforms. Online marketing can help you reach a broader audience and increase your visibility in the competitive notary market.

Join Notary Signing Agent Platforms

Notary signing agent platforms connect notaries with clients who need loan signing services. These platforms often provide a steady stream of opportunities to notarize loan documents, allowing you to earn additional income. Popular platforms like NotaryCam and Notarize can be a great place to start.

Offer Evening and Weekend Appointments

Consider offering evening and weekend appointments to accommodate clients with busy work schedules. This flexibility can make you more appealing to a broader range of clients, increasing your earning potential.

Set Competitive Rates

While setting your notary fees, research the market to ensure competitive rates. Offering transparent pricing can attract more clients and lead to repeat business.

Notary Money-Making Tips to Increase Your Income

In conclusion, there are numerous ways to make more money as a notary. You can turn your notary side hustle into a full-time money-making career by diversifying your services, marketing effectively, and building strong client relationships. Remember, success in the notary business often comes from offering convenience and building trust with your clients. Here are some additional ways to market your notary business that will help you to increase your income.

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August 25, 2023

Dress to Impress: Notary Etiquette 101

Filed under: Etiquette — Tags: — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

When it comes to maintaining professionalism in the legal and business world, the way you present yourself matters. This is especially true for notaries, who serve as impartial witnesses to the signing of important documents. The notary dress code contributes to projecting a trustworthy and credible image to clients. In this blog, we’ll delve into some essential tips for unlocking the notary dress code, ensuring you make a lasting impression in your role.

Importance of Dressing for Success

The notary dress code isn’t just about wearing a suit and tie; it’s about adhering to a standard that reflects your role’s significance. You often deal with critical legal documents and sensitive transactions as a notary. Dressing appropriately can instill confidence in your clients and convey that you take your responsibilities seriously. Remember, your attire is your first introduction to clients, and a professional appearance can set the tone for the entire interaction.

Opting for Classic Attire

Classic is the way to go regarding the notary dress code. Traditional business attire, such as suits for men and conservative dresses or suits for women, is generally the norm. Opt for neutral colors like black, navy, gray, or white, as they exude professionalism and are less likely to distract from the task. Keep accessories minimal and tasteful to avoid overwhelming your appearance.

Grooming and Presentation

It’s not just about the clothes you wear; grooming plays a crucial role, too. Make sure your hair is well-groomed, and your facial hair is neatly trimmed. If you wear makeup, keep it subtle and polished. Pay attention to your nails, ensuring they are clean and well-maintained. Remember, the goal is to look polished and put together, so paying attention to these details is key.

Comfort and Confidence

While adhering to the notary dress code, remember comfort. Your attire should allow you to move comfortably and perform your duties efficiently. An uncomfortable outfit can lead to distraction and unease during crucial transactions. Additionally, confidence is a byproduct of feeling comfortable in your attire. When you feel good about what you’re wearing, it’s easier to exude confidence and professionalism.

Adapting to the Occasion

While classic attire is the most appropriate dress for a notary, adapting to the specific occasion is essential. Some situations require a slightly more formal outfit, while others are more relaxed. Consider the context of the transaction you’ll witness and adjust your attire accordingly. Flexibility while staying within the boundaries of professionalism is vital.

Footwear Matters

Footwear is an often overlooked aspect of dressing professionally. Your shoes should be clean, polished, and appropriate for the setting. Avoid flashy or overly casual footwear, which can detract from your overall professional appearance. Opt for closed-toe shoes that complement your outfit and maintain a sense of formality.

Attention to Detail

The devil is in the details, as they say. Pay attention to small but impactful aspects of your appearance, such as your belt, tie, or jewelry. Ensure they are coordinated and match your overall ensemble. These small touches demonstrate your commitment to presenting a polished image.

Elevate Credibility and Inspire Trust

Ensuring your appearance is in line with the expectations of the job is one of the most important components of building a successful practice. Keep your professional attire so prospective clients will see you as reliable and trustworthy. Invest a few hours into gathering pieces that showcase your professionalism and aim for a polished look that will make even the toughest critics take notice. Moreover, feel free to bring out your style. It can be conveyed through subtle details like jewelry, scarves, and ties. By staying true to your professional code, you can draw more attention and get more clients for yourself in the future.

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July 7, 2023

Tackling the Notary Path: How Hard Can it Be?

Filed under: Notary Public 101 — Tags: , — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

Are you thinking about becoming a notary and trying to figure out how difficult the process is or what difficulties you may face in this career? While the requirements may vary by state, becoming a notary can be fulfilling. In this blog post, we’ll know how hard it is to become a notary and the necessary steps to become certified as a notary public. Learn about the responsibilities of individuals in the business, successful notary duties, and any potential biases or stereotypes in the field. Start your journey to becoming a Notary Public by gaining the necessary knowledge for advancement.

Understanding the Notary Role

Before delving into the process of becoming a notary, it is important to understand the role they play. A notary is a public officer appointed by the state government to witness the signing of important documents and administer oaths. They act as impartial witnesses to prevent fraud and ensure the validity and enforceability of legal documents.

Meeting the Requirements

The specific requirements to become a notary can vary depending on the jurisdiction, but there are commonalities across many regions. The process typically involves:

1. Age and Residency: Most jurisdictions require notaries to be at least 18 years old and legal residents of the state where they wish to practice.

2. Education and Background Check: Some states may require the completion of educational courses related to notary laws and procedures. Additionally, a background check may be necessary to ensure the applicant has no criminal history that could compromise their integrity as a notary.

3. Application and Fees: Aspiring notaries must submit an application to the appropriate regulatory authority and pay the associated fees. The application typically includes personal information, educational background, and any additional documentation the state requires.

4. Notary Exam: Several states require applicants to pass a notary exam to demonstrate their understanding of notary laws and practices. The exam may cover document types, identification requirements, and notarization procedures.

5. Bond and Insurance: Many states require notaries to obtain a surety bond and/or errors and omissions insurance. These serve as financial protection in case of errors or misconduct during notarial acts.

6. Commissioning and Renewal: Successful applicants receive their notary commission once all requirements are met. The commission is usually valid for four years, after which notaries must renew their commitment to continue practicing.

Navigating Challenges on the Path

While becoming a notary is generally straightforward, certain challenges may arise. Here are a few potential hurdles and tips to tackle them:

1. Understanding Legal Terminology: Notaries should familiarize themselves with legal terminology and document types commonly encountered in their jurisdiction. Taking educational courses or seeking guidance from experienced notaries can help.

2. Staying Updated with Laws and Regulations: Notary laws and regulations are subject to change. Aspiring notaries must try to stay updated with any amendments or new legislation that may affect their practice. Joining professional associations and attending seminars or workshops can provide valuable insights and networking opportunities.

3. Building a Client Base: Starting a notary business requires building a client base and establishing a reputation for reliability and professionalism. Networking with attorneys, real estate agents, and other professionals frequently requiring notarial services can help generate referrals and opportunities.

Embrace The Challenges And Reap The Rewarding Benefits

It’s hard to truly know how hard it is to become a notary without taking the first step. Becoming a notary in your state requires time and money, so it pays to know all the facts before diving in. It is easy to feel overwhelmed at the thought of navigating the path to becoming a notary because the requirements are strict, and understanding the full scope of what is expected can seem daunting. But don’t let that deter you from taking on this rewarding profession. By investing in yourself and understanding the ins and outs of becoming a notary, you can join this amazing world of public service experts! So, if you’re interested in joining the legal services industry but need help knowing where to start – take action now! If you’re trying to find a Notary Signing Agent near you, you can locate providers in your area on our website.

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June 23, 2023

What Sets a Mobile Notary Apart from a Notary

Filed under: Notary Public 101 — Tags: , — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

When you need to have an important document notarized, you may wonder if you should go to a traditional notary public or use a mobile notary. While both types of notaries offer similar services, some key differences between the notary and mobile notaries may affect your decision. In this article, we will explore what sets a mobile notary apart from a notary and explain the benefits of using a mobile notary service.

Mobile Notary vs. Traditional Notary

A traditional notary public is a professional appointed by the state to verify signatures, administer oaths, and perform other duties related to the certification of documents. A traditional notary’s office is usually in a fixed location, such as a courthouse, bank, or law firm. Clients typically visit the notary’s place to complete their documents.

On the other hand, a mobile notary is a notary public who travels to the client’s location to notarize documents. They offer more flexibility regarding time and place, making it easier for clients to get their documents notarized when and where they need them.

The Distinction Between a Notary and a Mobile Notary

One of the most significant differences between a notary and a mobile notary is that a mobile notary can come to you. This means you don’t need to take time off work, travel to the notary’s location, or wait in long lines. Mobile notaries can visit your home, office, or any other convenient place.

Another difference is availability. Traditional notaries usually work regular business hours, which may not be convenient for people who work during the day. A mobile notary, however, can work outside of regular business hours and on weekends, making it easier for clients to get their documents notarized at a time that works for them.

Fees and Scheduling

Traditionally, notaries charge a flat fee per signature they notarize. On the other hand, mobile notaries usually charge an additional fee for travel time and expenses, which can vary depending on the distance traveled and the time of day. However, mobile notaries’ convenience and flexibility can outweigh this added expense.

Regarding scheduling, mobile notaries often offer more flexibility than traditional notaries. They can usually accommodate last-minute requests and work around your schedule, which can be especially helpful in urgent situations.

When to Use a Notary vs. When to Use a Mobile Notary

The choice between a traditional and mobile notary depends on your needs and circumstances. Suppose you have a document that needs to be notarized. Still, you have limited mobility or transportation options or need it done outside regular business hours. In that case, a mobile notary may be your best option. On the other hand, if you prefer to visit a fixed location and are willing to take time off work or wait in line, a traditional notary may work well for you.

Final Thoughts: Distinguishing Notary from Mobile Notary

Understanding the differences between a notary and a mobile notary is crucial when seeking reliable and convenient notarial services. While both are responsible for certifying documents, mobile notaries distinguish themselves by their ability to travel to clients’ preferred locations, offering flexibility and convenience. With the ever-increasing demand for efficient and accessible services, mobile notaries from Notaries/Signings are invaluable. Whether you require notarizations for personal or business matters, opting for a mobile notary ensures that your documents are handled with utmost care and convenience. Take advantage of the convenience and efficiency offered by mobile notaries and secure your notarial needs today.

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June 9, 2023

Innovative Marketing Tips for Your Mobile Notary Service

Filed under: (6) Marketing — Tags: , , — Tom Wilkins @ 3:51 pm

Are you ready to take your mobile notary service marketing to the next level? This article will provide essential marketing tips for mobile notary services, which can help you update your strategy and achieve impressive outcomes. From leveraging online platforms to targeting local audiences, these expert strategies will empower you to attract more clients and elevate your business. Get ready to unlock the secrets of successful mobile notary service marketing and position yourself as a leader in the industry. Let’s dive in and discover the transformative power of these marketing tips for mobile notary services.

Harness the Power of Digital Marketing

  1. Build a professional website: Invest in a well-designed website that showcases your services, expertise, and contact information. Ensure it is user-friendly and optimized for mobile devices.
  2.   Optimize for search engines: Conduct thorough keyword research to identify the terms potential clients might use to search for mobile notary services. Incorporate these keywords into your website content to improve your search engine rankings.
  3. Leverage social media: Establish a strong presence on popular social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Share informative and engaging content regularly, and interact with your audience to build trust and credibility.

Maximize Local SEO

  1. Claim your Google My Business listing: This ensures that your mobile notary service appears on Google Maps and local search results when users search for services in your area.
  2. Encourage client reviews: Positive online reviews from satisfied clients can significantly enhance your reputation and attract new customers. Encourage your clients to leave reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and Facebook.
  3. Target local keywords: Incorporate location-specific keywords into your website content to optimize for local searches. For example, include phrases like “mobile notary services in [your city].”

Cultivate Networking Opportunities

  1. Join professional associations: Connect with other notary professionals through local and national associations. Attend industry events and conferences to network, share insights, and stay updated on the latest trends.
  2. Collaborate with complementary businesses: Identify businesses frequently requiring notary services, such as real estate agencies or law firms. Establish partnerships to provide mutual referrals and expand your client base.

Specialize Your Services

  1. Identify niche markets: Research local industries or groups with specific notary needs. For instance, you could target medical professionals, wedding planners, or senior care facilities.
  2. Customize your marketing messages: Tailor your marketing materials to address your target market’s unique needs and pain points. Highlight the benefits and convenience of your mobile notary services for their specific situations.

Foster Trust and Credibility

  1. Display professional credentials: Showcase your qualifications, certifications, and memberships on your website and marketing materials. This helps potential clients feel confident in your expertise.
  2. Share testimonials and case studies: Feature success stories and testimonials from satisfied clients to demonstrate your track record of delivering exceptional service.
  3. Prioritize security and confidentiality: Emphasize your commitment to privacy and security to instill trust in your clients. Assure them that their sensitive documents will be handled with utmost care and confidentiality.

Ignite Success: Mobile Notary Service Marketing Makeover!

In conclusion, by revamping and modernizing your marketing tips for mobile notary services, you can unleash the true power of your business. Advertising on the right platforms, targeting the desired audience, and closely analyzing customer actions are the keys to success. But it doesn’t end there. Notaries who are experts in their field, staying ahead of the competition and keeping up with industry-specific tools and trends, will truly stand out. By creating high-quality content that showcases your knowledge and experience, you can attract new customers while establishing yourself as a trusted authority. So, embrace these tips and strategies to revamp your marketing plan today. Let your expertise shine in the competitive mobile notary sector. The stage is set for your continued success!

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March 24, 2023

Best Apps for Mobile Notary Services

Filed under: Business Tips — Tags: , — Tom Wilkins @ 10:00 am

If you’re a mobile notary, arriving at your notary jobs on time is essential. Navigation and other vehicle-related apps can streamline scheduling and reduce costs when driving to different cities.

A great app can help you avoid traffic jams, find a restaurant that serves your favorite food, pinpoint a place with the cheapest gas or an EV charger, and so much more. Here are the best apps for mobile notary services that will make your life easier and save you money.

Waze

Waze is a reliable traffic navigation and alert app that uses real-time traffic data to bypass accidents, avoid speed traps, and be routed to your destination using the quickest path. The app can save you time and frustration, especially if you drive through heavily congested areas.

Plug in your starting point and destination to see how long it will take so you can plan your day accordingly. If you have flexibility, the Waze app will take historical data and tell you the ideal time to leave to avoid traffic.

GasBuddy

GasBuddy helps drivers locate nearby gas stations and find the best gas deals to plan a cost-effective trip. The app also offers pricing stats so you can see at a glance if gas prices are rising or falling, so you can fill up when it saves you the most money.

Gas Buddy also has a handy feature that can estimate fuel expenditure if you’re planning a road trip which can help you plan a budget.

PlugShare

The PlugShare app is a must-have if you own an electric vehicle. The app highlights the locations of over 230,000 EV chargers and superchargers across the US, with data updated regularly. Zoom in on your area and click on any tab to learn the charger location, address, business hours, and the number of charger spots they offer.

The best feature of PlugShare is that the information is in real-time, so you can locate an open charger in your area without having to drive there and check the status, saving battery power. There is also a chat feature to connect with a technician if you have any questions or issues.

BestParking

BestParking is one of the top apps for mobile notary services, as it can be a lifesaver when driving to appointments in urban areas. The app can find available parking, lets you compare fees, and even allows you to book a parking space so you can quickly park and go.

The app is very user-friendly. You can find a spot immediately or pre-pay and reserve a parking slot on a specific date and time, which can significantly reduce stress. A bonus is using the app can save you up to 50% off posted parking rates.

FIXD

When you rely on your vehicle for work, keeping it maintained is critical. The FIXD app is a monthly subscription that uses a sensor on ICE cars and trucks after 1996 and diesel trucks built after 2008 to diagnose your engine.

Pop the FIXD sensor into the OBD2 port under the steering wheel, start the car, open the app, and scan your vehicle’s condition. Instantly receive data on your smartphone about issues that need attention, especially when the check engine light is on. The app also sends alerts when your vehicle needs oil changes, tune-ups, and other routine maintenance that can slip your mind.

The app stores your vehicle history and comes with on-call support from FIXD mechanics, who can guide you through repair solutions.

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March 17, 2023

How to Be a Successful Mobile Notary

Filed under: Become a Notary,Beginners Corner,Notary Public 101 — Tags: , , — Tom Wilkins @ 4:17 pm

Working as a mobile notary is an attractive option for those who find the idea of clocking 8 or 9 hours daily at the same location with the same people more than a little stifling. Mobile notaries get to work with a diverse group of people and aren’t stuck at one location constantly. Of course, the drive is only one part of the answer to being a successful mobile notary. Read on for some key tips on turning that dream into a practical reality.

Develop a Plan

People don’t open a restaurant or even launch e-commerce stores without making a plan first. Being a mobile notary isn’t a traditional business, but it most certainly is a business. You should treat it that way and make a business plan.

You can find templates for business plans in many places online, such as the Small Business Administration. Minimally, you need some ideas about what services you’ll offer, the service hours you’ll keep, your expected expenses, and a fee schedule.

Give particular thought to where and how you’ll market your services. Will you get yourself listed in an online notary directory (you should) or focus more on local publications to advertise your services? You’ll probably want a mix of online and offline marketing.

Diversify Your Service Offerings

Many new mobile notaries will focus all their attention on the loan signing aspect of notary services. While these assignments can prove profitable, the payment timeline is extended. You can wait up to 45 days before you see any money.

Consider offering other services directly to consumers in your community. For example, you can offer signature witnessing or copy certification, assuming there is enough work and you can charge enough per notarization to justify it. If nothing else, these other services can help you maintain a positive cash flow

Make Strategic Alliances

New notaries often view other notaries or businesses offering notary services as their competition. There is a kernel of truth in that, but it also limits your business unnecessarily. For example, you’ll want to limit the distance you will drive to offer your services. You can set up an informal agreement to recommend that people use a different notary if they’re outside your driving radius and vice versa.

Pick Your Customers

A common mistake that many new business owners make is that they assume every customer is good. That’s not always the case. For example, a customer that wants you to make a long drive two or three times a month for a low-paying service isn’t a good fit.

As a rule, you must balance your costs and the value of your time against what you get from a customer. Spending an hour round trip for a job that only pays $25 isn’t profitable. You want customers who make it worth your while to make the trip by getting higher-paying services or bundling together several lower-paying services.

How to Be a Successful Mobile Notary

The question of how to be a successful mobile notary requires several things from you. Minimally, you need a business plan to focus your efforts. You’ll want to offer a mix of services to capture immediate profit from consumers and higher-paying work like loan signings. Think about making strategic alliances. Finally, pick customers that value your time and make it worthwhile to make the trip.

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January 6, 2023

How to Create a Mobile Notary Business Plan

Creating a mobile notary business plan is important in starting your own business. A mobile notary business offers convenience to customers who need notarization services but need help to reach a physical location. As a mobile notary, you can travel to your clients and provide notary services at their location, making it more convenient for them.

The first step in creating your business plan is researching the market. This will help you understand your area’s demand for mobile notary services and the competition you will face. You will also want to research the regulations and requirements for becoming a notary in your state. Once you have a good understanding of the market and regulations, you can start to develop your business plan. A mobile notary business plan should include the following key elements:

Executive Summary: This should provide an overview of your business and its goals. It should also include a summary of your research and your target market.
Business Description: This should include more detailed information about your business, such as your mission statement, services offered, and competitive advantage.
Market Analysis: This should include information about your target market, including demographics, needs, and buying habits. It should also include information about your competition and how you plan to differentiate yourself.
Operations Plan: This should include information about how your business will operate, acquire customers, and provide notary services.
Financial Plan: This should include financial projections, such as projected income and expenses, and a break-even analysis.
Conclusion: Summarize your business plan

Creating a successful business plan is key to setting your mobile notary business up for success. Knowing the demand for mobile notary services in your area and the competition you will face are important considerations. Moreover, understanding the regulations and requirements of becoming a notary in your state is paramount. Additionally, understanding your target market, operations details, and plans for financial gains can help build a complete business strategy. Ultimately, this approach will provide more insight into setting goals, achieving objectives, and becoming a successful business owner.

Once you have completed your business plan, reviewing it and making any necessary revisions is important. You may also consider seeking feedback from a mentor, business advisor, or other notaries who are experts.

To be successful in the mobile notary business, it’s important to have a solid mobile notary business plan in place. This plan will serve as a roadmap for your business, outlining your goals, strategies, and financial projections. By taking the time to research your market, create a comprehensive business plan, and seek feedback from experts, you will be well on your way to starting a successful mobile notary business.

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January 28, 2022

Bartender Notary: A reverse mortgage on the rocks!

Filed under: Humorous Posts,Popular on Twitter 2011 — Tags: , , — admin @ 11:54 pm

This was originally published in 2013.

Signing with the Bartender-Notary: Reverse Mortgage on the Rocks

The bartender notary knocks on the door. “Hi, I’m the bartender notary. I’m here to do your signing.”
“Sure, come right in,” says Joe the borrower.

They go to the dining room table to do the signing. The bartender notary looks around and says, “Hey, isn’t that a wet bar in the back of your living room?”
“Yes.”
“Would you mind if we sat over there?; I would feel much more comfortable sitting over there,” the bartender notary says.
Joe goes behind the bar and asks, “Where am I supposed to sit?”
“No, I’m the bartender so I go behind the bar. you sit on the stool on the other side,” the notary insists.

“Aren’t we gonna do the signing?” asks Joe.
The notary opens his briefcase and takes out a few flasks of non-alcoholic drinks, a tall glass, and a little umbrella. “I’m frustrated, because , when I go to signings, no one ever offers me a drink…maybe after half an hour they might offer me some tap water if I’m lucky…So I decided to turn the tables around…or the counters, as the case may be…and offer the signers a drink. I make my own orange-cranberry spritzer…would you like one of those…or would you like a virgin lemonade? I’ve got everything except ice.”

“Make me a strawberry lime spritzer…and can you muddle the fruits a little? Wait—” says Joe. “Aren’t we supposed to be doing a signing?”
“I’m the bartender notary; I talk bar talk. It’s my trademark to serve drinks and make smalltalk before we do the signing.”
“Ok, I’ll play along,” says Joe.

“How about those Dodgers, Joe? Who are they gonna trade?”
“Well, right now, I’m ready to trade notaries—if we don’t get started with the signing right away.”
“Ok, let’s do the signing,” the notary shrugs.
“Actually,” Joe says, “my reverse mortgage was on the rocks since the beginning of the application process, so I decided to go for a refinance– straight up.”

“Ok,” the notary says.“Your first document is a Deed of Trust. May I see some ID, sir?”
The borrower says, “What, I don’t look over 21?”
“Just a precaution, sir.”

The bartender notary opens his journal and begins to record the types of documents, the patron-borrower’s ID, and the types of drinks served at the signing.

The notary says, “This is your Deed of Trust. Your loan amount is right here; please initial all pages of the document and sign on the last page.”

They get to the Note; the notary says, “This is your Note. Your interest rate is 4.5%. The last loan I signed was an adjustable rate mortgage. I asked the borrower if he would like his interest rate shaken or stirred when the adjustment date comes in two years. He didn’t laugh. He didn’t think it was very funny. I’m lucky he didn’t trade me. Maybe it was how I said it…”

Then the notary asks, “So how’s the wife treating you?”
“Oh, I canned her years ago… I have a girlfriend,” says Joe.
“Do you think she will be in need of a bartender-notary anytime soon?”
“No she lives in an apartment. She won’t need to refinance anything in this lifetime.”

“So waddaya think–those interest rates—are they gonna go up or down?” asks the bartender notary.
“Oh, the Fed’s gotta keep it about the same—or you notaries will all be out of a job!”

“Next, we are going to look at the TIL. This is your Truth in Lending disclosure. Your APR is right here. So are we going into Iran? Whaddaya think the chances are that we invade Iran?”
Joe the signer looks at the TIL and says, “I’d give it about a 4.97%… Hey, I thought we’re not supposed to talk about politics at the signing?”
“That’s my trademark, I have to talk about politics because I’m the bartender notary… that’s what bartenders talk about. Would you like some bar snacks? We have peanuts, wasabi chips … Did you hear about LAX Vineyards new wine blend? It’s a cross between a cab, a merlot, and a shuttle. It’s very popular with bartenders. Did you hear about the wine documentary from Ireland? It’s called Cork Uncorked… There’s a special kind of wine for a signing… Did you hear about the Reverse Mortgage Cabernet? It’s rich in tannins and has two subtle notes…black cherry, and a hint of cocoa…and a smooth finish…assuming that we don’t have to call the lender.”

Joe asks, “What’s next?”
“The next document is your HUD.”

They go to the HUD. Joe the borrower asks, “Oh, so is my strawberry lime spritzer documented in the HUD?”
“Yeah, I think it’s right there under the termite inspection…Let’s just sign the rest of these documents; I have to close up soon…Last call,” says the notary.

They finish signing the rest of the documents.

The notary takes the borrower’s copy of the Deed of Trust and places it next to the signed Deed of Trust. Joe looks at it and says, “There are two Deeds of Trust. I’m seeing double. I thought that strawberry lime spritzer was non-alcoholic…”

“No! These are your borrower’s copies. Are you gonna be ok—or should I call you a cab?”
Joe: “I’m already home…I live here.”

Tweets:
(1) I’m frustrated because when I go to signings, nobody ever offers me a drink!
(2) Bartender notary prefers to do his signings sitting on stools near the wet-bar.
(3) I’m the bartender notary; I talk bar talk. It’s my trademark to serve drinks and make smalltalk before signing.”

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http://blog.123notary.com/?p=17693

Compilation of posts about Notary etiquette
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January 23, 2022

The Notary, The Mafia & The Fedex Drop Box

This was originally published many years ago.

An uneventful signing
It was a gray Monday afternoon in the first week of November. Kary went to her signing with the Thompsons. They signed the documents without too much reading or complaining. Kary had one other signing after that. When all was done, she made her way to the Fedex drop box. She had a habit of always going to that same drop box. It was near her home, and it felt like a safe place to go at night, being a single woman.

Luckily for her she was nowhere near the San Diego mayor’s office.

The Sopranos were en route to the same location she was
This poor woman’s luck — she ran into someone who was still mourning the loss of the great James Gandolfini AKA Tony Soprano. He was such a fan of the show that he decided to pull a mafioso type move on this poor unexpecting woman. This thug Tony Baritone had been in the drug trade for years, but wanted to step it up a notch. His old M.O. was meeting for the swap in a dark alley, giving them the briefcase, taking the package — you know the drill. But, he wanted to do it more like they do in the movies this time. This was his first attempt at simulating the panache of his television alter-ego.

Just about to drop the FedEx and…
So, this woman was just about to drop her package in the box. Her finger was on the handle of the box. She noticed a large garbage backing up about 50 feet away. She disregarded the truck whose distinctive oder was wafting her way. She put the Fedex in the Fedex drop box, and then proceded back to her car. The garbage truck nearly ran her car off the road as she left her parking space. It was so abrupt, she stopped the car to get out and see what this maniac’s problem was.

The garbage truck backed up
The truck had backed up almost into the Fedex box, and had jaws that clamped the Fedex drop box and tore it from its bearings and lifted it into the truck. The woman started screaming, “What are you doing? Are you crazy?”

Blonde #2 appears
Then another blonde lady appeared out of nowhere who looked almost exactly like the notary. She was the same age, same hair color, and same height, and also had a Fedex package that she wanted to drop. The other lady looked very puzzled. She said to herself, “Wait a second, my instructions were to put the Fedex in the drop box and leave — but, that truck just took the Fedex drop box away!” Blonde #2 (also an unnatural blonde) was unbeknowingly carrying $10,000,000 in drug money that she was to deposit in the Fedex box — which was to be removed by the garbage truck. But, their plan got foiled.

We have to get rid of the witness
The driver said to his friend, “We have two problems — the money is not in the Fedex Box, AND, there’s a witness. We need to get rid of the witness, but I can’t tell them apart.”
His friend said,“You have to look for the roots, real blondes have roots — our blond is a real blonde!”
Driver: “No she ain’t, I’ve seen the broad before, she has a different hairstyle every several months”
Friend: “So, you can tell the two chicks apart!”
Driver: “Not from this distance without my glasses. Let’s get my money first. The broad with the package has the money.”

The mafia chases the blonde
So, the driver and his friend jump out of the truck (which is parked in the middle of the boulevard) and run towards the blonde with the Fedex. The irony is that she doesn’t know that they are the intended recipients of the package because her instructions were only to “Put the Fedex in the drop box”. So, she runs away from these scary people — who are actually her boyfriend’s best friends, and the ones who gave the $10,000 to her boyfriend to pay her to do the drop. Meanwhile the notary lady decides to chase after these scumbags to get them to give her package back.

She loses them and then finds them
In the heat of the chase, she loses them, and then finds them again. The other blonde escapes from these thugs, finds the drop box in the back of the garbage truck, puts it in, and runs away. Meanwhile, notary lady catches up to the thugs, and throws her embosser at them — leaving a raised seal of disapproval (in the form of a bruise) on the now unconscious mafia garbage truck driver’s left temple. The irony of the story is that the character with the concealed weapon is not one the mafia characters, but is the notary who was carrying a stainless steel embosser.

The Notary recovers the loan docs
After that, the driver’s friend ran away and the notary proceeded to the unattended garbage truck to pick up her package. She picked up the highest package in the box in such a hurry, she didn’t realize that she had picked up $10,000,000 in dirty drug money. She gets in her car and drives off with her “loan docs” finally in her possession again. She calls the signing company and lets them know about the problem. Then, she proceeds to her nearest staffed Fedex station — where there won’t be any garbage trucks (let’s hope). She pats the package in glee to have gotten it back after a small altercation. But, she notices a distinct bulge in the package that didn’t feel like loan documents.

But, what she had was not really the loan docs after all
The five seconds after she realized that her loan documents were not in her possession, she saw a large garbage truck driving down the street.

Mental note to self: “Take out the garbage”

Tweets:
(1) A notary bumps into Toni Baratone at a FedEx drop box
(2) The garbage truck tore the FedEx drop box from its bearings and took it away!
(3) “We need to get rid of the witness, but I can’t tell the 2 blondes apart”
(4) The Notary takes $10 million in drug money to the Title company by accident.

You might also like:

The Flo-tary and the name your price tool
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=16194

Notary aptitude test
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=15853

Don’t put the FedEx in the drop box
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=2831

More on Snapdocs, the Uber of the Notary industry
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=16236

My interpretation of how the Notary industry went South
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=16500

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