Key Takeaways: International buyers and sellers of Florida real estate have two primary options for completing a transaction without traveling to Miami: mail-away closings and Remote Online Notarization (RON) closings. In a mail-away closing, the title company or closing attorney sends the full closing package, typically 100 or more pages, to the parties, who sign, notarize, and return the documents before the closing deadline. This method is commonly used when buyers are financing the purchase or when they cannot qualify for a RON closing. Remote Online Notarization (RON) allows parties to execute closing documents electronically via a live video session with a certified Florida notary. Florida law permits RON closings, but foreign sellers or buyers who are not U.S. citizens may need to obtain pre-approval from the title company’s underwriting team before a RON closing can proceed. Some lenders and jurisdictions may also restrict RON eligibility. International buyers are advised to confirm their closing method eligibility early in the transaction, as last-minute changes can delay funding and create title complications.
Miami is a hotbed, literally and figuratively, for real estate investors from around the world, and because of our global footprint, many transactions involve buyers or sellers who are not physically located in Florida when it’s time to close.
That’s okay. Instead of having to fly to Miami for a one-hour signing appointment, many buyers and sellers often complete their real estate transactions remotely, either through a mail-away closing or Remote Online Notarization (RON). Both options allow the transaction to move forward without all parties attending an in-person closing, but each process comes with different requirements and considerations.
Here’s a closer look at the two closing options for foreign buyers.
What Is a Mail-Away Closing for Florida Real Estate?
Mail-away closings enable buyers and sellers to complete a real estate transaction without being physically present at their title agent’s office. As the name suggests, the closing documents, often upwards of 100 pages, are sent to the buyer or seller, who must sign, date, notarize, and return them within tight timelines.
Mail-away closings are often used in situations when the buyer or seller cannot travel, when they cannot get approved for a RON closing, or when financing requirements make physical signatures necessary.
While mail-away closings are common in Florida real estate transactions, they do require significant coordination to avoid delays.
What is Remote Online Notarization (RON) and How Does It Work in Florida?
Remote Online Notarization (RON) allows buyers and sellers to sign closing documents electronically during a live online session with a certified remote notary. In many ways, the process mirrors an in-person closing, simply conducted virtually.
For international buyers, however, RON closings require a few extra steps. Namely, if the seller is not a U.S. citizen, they may need to obtain pre-approval from the title company’s underwriter before the RON closing can proceed. Additionally, some lenders, countries, or identification requirements may limit whether a RON closing can be used.
International buyers should plan ahead to determine whether their transaction qualifies for RON so there are no unnecessary delays when closing day arrives.
Why Experience Matters in Remote Real Estate Closings
Whether you’re purchasing Miami real estate from abroad or selling Florida property while out of state, working with an experienced title company and real estate attorney can help ensure your remote closing stays on track.
At the Law Offices of Alex D. Sirulnik, P.A. and ADS Title Services, Inc., our team regularly assists domestic and international buyers with mail-away closings and Remote Online Closings throughout Florida. We coordinate the process from start to finish to help ensure transactions remain compliant, efficient, and stress-free.
If you have questions about completing a Florida real estate transaction remotely, contact our team today.
