Hybrid Closings

A hybrid closing allows the consumer to electronically sign documents that are not critical and do not require notarization.

Which documents to print

All documents marked as wet sign should be printed for a closing.

Screenshot 2024-11-18 at 3.48.41 PM (1)If the consumer officially opts out of the eSign portion, the eSign package will automatically upload to the order and be labeled for wet signing.

What is a hybrid?

A hybrid closing is one in which the consumer has the option to eSign non-critical, non-notarized documents. eSigning typically takes place before meeting with a settlement agent or notary to finalize the closing. This means that signing appointments typically take less time and require fewer pages to be printed. 

How does Snapdocs handle a hybrid closing?

Snapdocs works directly with lenders or settlement companies to understand which documents can be eSigned and which need to be wet-signed. When a hybrid closing package is uploaded to Snapdocs, we use technology to split the package into three new packages:

  • eSignable - this package contains all of the pages that the consumer will have the ability to eSign before the appointment.
  • Wet-signable - this package contains all of the pages that must be signed with pen and paper and/or notarized.
  • Consumer’s preview - this package will be available to the consumer to review before they sign anything. This gives them the ability to check information and ask any questions before their appointment. We leave things like escrow instructions out of the consumer’s preview. 

Lenders and settlement companies have different rules about when eSignable documents can be eSigned. Some allow docs to be eSigned as soon as the TRID period is over and some require that eSigned docs are signed on the same day as the wet signing appointment. 

How should I prepare for a hybrid closing signing appointment?

When you’re assigned to a hybrid closing, you’ll be reminded in the confirmation email.

When you view the order online, you’ll be able to see that the wet sign package is available for you to print. Be sure to confirm that you are in compliance with any special instructions specific to the order.

When you confirm the appointment with the consumer, you should encourage them to eSign before your appointment. You’ll receive an email when consumers finish eSigning but you can also log in to Snapdocs to check the eSign status of any closing you're assigned to:

Screenshot 2024-11-18 at 3.48.14 PM

Tip: If the consumer has not completed eSigning before your appointment, you should make sure that they are aware of the requirement. If they are having trouble completing their eSign documents, they can contact the Snapdocs support team for assistance. If they do not wish to eSign, you should direct them to reach out to their lender contact.