Closing ProcessHomebuying Glossary
Notary Public
Also known as Notary
An official authorized to witness and certify signatures on legal documents, including closing paperwork.
In plain English
A notary public verifies your identity and witnesses your signature on key closing documents, adding a layer of legal certainty that the signatures are authentic. Many closings today can be notarized remotely online.
Why it matters
Bring valid, unexpired photo ID to closing — a notary generally cannot proceed without properly verifying your identity.
Where you'll run into it
Guides and tools on TheBuyingPath that cover notary public in context.
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