Can You Close on a House Remotely? What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

Key takeaways:
– Yes, you can close on a house remotely in many states, through a hybrid process or a fully digital eClosing with Remote Online Notarization (RON).
– Remote closings can save time and offer flexibility, especially for out-of-state or relocating buyers and sellers.
– Both buyers and sellers should stay alert to fraud by verifying wiring instructions, using secure platforms, and keeping digital records for taxes and future reference.

Congratulations! You’ve made it to closing day and you’re wondering, can you close on a house remotely? The answer is yes. In many states, both buyers and sellers can complete the entire closing process online using digital signatures, remote notarization, and secure fund transfers. This option saves time, travel, and offers convenience. However, deciding if it’s right for you depends on location, tech comfort, and how quickly you want the sale or purchase finalized.

Whether you’re selling or buying a home in Bend, OR, Asheville, NC, or Sedona, AZ, this Redfin guide will walk you through what a remote closing is and how sellers and buyers can decide if a virtual closing is the best fit for them.

What is a remote closing?

A remote closing streamlines the process by allowing parties to complete their side of the transaction without gathering around a closing table in person. Depending on state rules and lender policies, this can include signing documents electronically, completing notarization over a secure video call, and wiring funds digitally.

This means saving time, eliminating travel, and easing stress during a busy transition — especially if you’re relocating, balancing work, or unable to attend in person. 

>> Read: How Do E-Closings Work?

Types of remote closings

When asking can you close on a house remotely? The answer often depends on which method is available. Depending on state law, lender requirements, and your comfort level, you’ll usually encounter one of two approaches for remote closings.

Hybrid closings

• Most documents are signed electronically.
• A few key forms (like the deed)still require an in-person, notarized signature.
• This approach is the most common, since it blends online convenience with legal compliance.

Fully digital closings (e-closings)

• The process happens entirely online, including notarization.
• Remote Online Notarization (RON) verifies identity and witnesses signatures via secure video call.
• The entire transaction – signing, reviewing, and wiring funds – can happen without meeting in person.
• This option is only available in states that permit it and with lenders who approve it..

Why remote closing benefits buyers and sellers

The closing process can feel like one of the most time-consuming and stressful steps. A remote closing helps take the pressure off by moving much of the process online and making the process more flexible.

• Increased security: Encrypted platforms and identity verification reduce the risk of mishandling paperwork. For example, a seller or buyer living abroad can securely close online, avoiding international mail.
• Flexibility across time zones: Remote signings ease transactions, especially for buyers and sellers in different regions, like a California seller closing a deal with buyers in New Jersey despite time zone differences.
• Reduced stress during relocation: both parties can digitally sign documents remotely, avoiding travel delays for closing appointments, even when moving cross-country.
• Cost savings: Remote closings can reduce some costs for travel, couriers, and other logistical costs, benefiting both sellers and buyers in rural areas by eliminating long drives to title offices.

>>Read: Does the Seller Have to be Present at Closing

When remote closings aren’t right for you

While remote closings offer several benefits, they aren’t the ideal solution for every real estate transaction. There are several compelling reasons why a traditional, in-person approach might be preferable.

• Tech challenges: Remote closing can be difficult for those without reliable internet or tech skills, such as a rural seller or buyer with inconsistent Wi-Fi.
• Legal or lender restrictions: Some states still don’t allow Remote Online Notarization (RON), and some lenders require in-person signings for certain documents.
• Personal preference: Some sellers or buyers, particularly first-timers, might prefer a traditional, in-person closing with their agent for a more confident and hands-on experience.

Steps for sellers and buyers during a remote closing

Whether you’re the seller or the buyer, deciding if a remote closing is right for you is a big step in the real estate transaction, here’s what to expect:

Steps for sellers:

1. Consult with your agent and closing team: Your team will confirm whether a remote closing is available and explain the process.
2. Check state rules: Ask your closing team whether your state allows fully remote notarization or requires a hybrid process.
3. Choose a secure e-closing platform: Often, your title company or lender will provide this with built-in encryption and ID verification features.
4. Review and sign documents digitally: You’ll receive your settlement statement and other documents to sign electronically in advance.
5. Verify notarization (RON or hybrid): Depending on state and lender, notarization may happen fully online or partly in person.
6. Transfer funds securely: Follow your title company’s verified instructions for wiring money.
7. Arrange key delivery: Once funds clear and documents are recorded, your agent will help coordinate the handoff.

Steps for buyers:

1. Confirm lender acceptance: Not all lenders allow remote notarization.
2. Coordinate with your agent and title company: They’ll explain your state’s process and set you up with the correct platform.
3. Review your loan package: You’ll get access to closing disclosures digitally – ask questions before signing.
4. Complete notarization: Depending on your state, this may be fully online or hybrid.
5. Transfer funds securely: Verify wiring instructions with your bank and title company before sending closing costs.
6. Plan for possession: Once the seller delivers keys, you’ll be officially ready to move in.

Protect yourself from fraud in remote closings

Because remote closings take place online, it’s important for all parties to be extra cautious. Cybercriminals often target real estate transactions with scams like phishing emails or wire fraud, which can put your money and personal information at risk.

Smart safety checklist

• Verify wiring instructions through a trusted source.
• Be suspicious of last-minute changes.
• Look closely at email addresses and phone numbers.
• Use secure, encrypted platforms to share documents.
• Protect your personal devices.

>> Read: Protect Yourself – Don’t Let Wire Fraud Ruin Your Transaction

Handling taxes and proceeds after a remote home sale

Once the digital signatures are complete, the transaction is almost done but there are still a few essential tasks for both buyers and sellers. Handling these steps carefully helps avoid possible delays, tax issues, or security risks.

1. Confirm funds

• Buyers: Verify wire instructions with your title or escrow officer to confirm down payment and closing costs have been successfully wired, avoiding wire fraud. Retain your bank’s transfer confirmation.
• Sellers: Verify sale proceeds are in your account. Wire transfers usually take 24-48 hours, international transfers may take longer. Contact your title company if funds are delayed.

2. Review financial obligations

• Buyers: Your first mortgage payment is usually due on the first day of the second month after closing. For example, if you close on May 15, your initial payment is due July 1. Set up automatic payments to avoid typical late fees of $25-$50.
• Sellers: You may be subject to capital gains tax, depending on your situation. In general, the IRS allows exclusions of up to $250,000 (individuals) or $500,000 (married couples filing jointly), but eligibility depends on several factors. Speak with a qualified tax advisor to understand what applies to you.

3. Store your documents

Both parties should keep secure digital copies of all critical documents (for at least 7 years), including:

• Settlement statement (HUD-1 or Closing Disclosure)
• Proof of wire transfers
• Deed and title insurance (for buyers)
• IRS Form 1099-S (for sellers, if applicable)

>> Read: How Long to Keep Paperwork After Selling a House

4. Coordinate possession

Even if the financial transfer is fully digital, the physical exchange of the property is still essential:

• Buyers: Work with your agent to arrange key delivery, whether through a secure lockbox, courier, or in-person handoff.
• Sellers: Hand over all keys, remotes, and security codes. A concise home guide with manuals and utility info can ease the transition and boost post-sale satisfaction.

Final tips for remote closings

To make your remote closing seamless, it’s important to know your state’s requirements, use secure digital tools, and stay in close touch with your agent. Here are a few final tips to help you close with confidence:

• Verify wire instructions: Always confirm with your title company or lender before sending or receiving money.
• Know your state’s rules: Requirements for remote or hybrid closings vary by state and lender.
• Test your tech: Make sure you can access the e-closing platform and understand how it works ahead of time.
• Communicate often: Stay in close touch with your real estate agent, lender, and title company throughout the process.
• Save everything: Keep secure digital copies of all signed documents and financial records.

FAQ: Can you close on a house remotely?

1. Which states allow remote closings?

Most states permit remote home closings, though the specific regulations differ. Some states allow complete Remote Online Notarization (RON), while others only allow hybrid closings. Always confirm the requirements with your title company, lender, or a real estate attorney in your state.It’s crucial to verify with your title company or agent if your state currently supports fully digital closings.

2. How much does a remote closing cost compared to in-person?

Although most costs are the same, slight differences can occur. Some title companies charge an additional fee (typically $25-$150) for using a Remote Online Notary. However, buyers and sellers might save on courier fees, travel costs, and time off work, which can offset these extra charges.

3. Is a remote closing faster than an in-person one?

Yes, a fully digital e-closing can significantly reduce the closing process by eliminating the need for mailing or couriering documents. However, hybrid closings might not offer the same time savings if in-person notarization is still required.

4. What kind of technology do I need for a remote closing?

For a remote closing, you’ll need stable internet connection, a device with a camera and microphone, and a secure platform for e-signatures or video notarization. Most title companies will provide guidance and tech checks before closing.

5. What’s the biggest risk with remote closings?

Wire fraud is a significant and growing concern in real estate. To protect yourself, always confirm wiring instructions directly with your title company or lender before initiating any money transfers.

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