Virtual Closing Information
Virtual closings (also called remote online closings or e-closings) allow buyers, sellers, and lenders to execute closing documents from any location using secure technology. The closing may be fully virtual (all documents signed electronically with remote online notarization) or hybrid (some documents signed electronically and others signed in ink at a satellite location). Virtual closings became widely adopted after 2020 and are now a standard option in many jurisdictions. Benefits include: convenience for out-of-state parties, reduced travel costs, faster closing timelines, and the ability to accommodate parties with mobility limitations.
Florida Legal Definition
Florida was an early adopter of remote notarization technology. Florida Statutes §117.265 authorizes remote online notarization (RON), allowing notaries to notarize documents using audio-video technology when the signer and notary are not in the same physical location. Florida's Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (§668.50) validates electronic signatures for real estate documents. Florida Statutes §695.27 authorizes electronic recording of documents. For closings involving mortgages, the lender's requirements for electronic signatures and RON must be met (not all lenders accept RON for all document types). Florida's e-closing framework is one of the most comprehensive in the nation.
How It's Used in Practice
In practice, attorneys conduct virtual closings using approved platforms that provide identity verification, audio-video communication, electronic signature, and document management capabilities. The attorney coordinates the closing by: uploading documents to the platform, scheduling the video conference, verifying the identity of the signers through knowledge-based authentication and credential analysis, conducting the closing session (explaining documents, answering questions, witnessing signatures), and submitting the signed documents for electronic recording. Key considerations include: ensuring all parties have reliable internet access and identification documents, verifying lender acceptance of RON and electronic signatures, and maintaining recordings of the closing session as required by §117.265.
Key Takeaways
- Virtual closings use electronic signatures and video conferencing.
- Florida authorizes remote online notarization under §117.265.
- Electronic signatures valid under Florida's UETA (§668.50).
- Not all lenders accept RON for all document types.
- Identity verified through knowledge-based authentication.
Disclaimer: The information and opinions provided are for general educational, informational or entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice or a substitute for consultation with a qualified attorney. Any information that you read does not create an attorney–client relationship with Barnes Walker, Goethe, Perron, Shea & Johnson, PLLC, or any of its attorneys. Because laws, regulations, and court interpretations may change over time, the definitions and explanations provided here may not reflect the most current legal standards. The application of law varies depending on your particular facts and jurisdiction. For advice regarding your specific situation, please contact one of our Florida attorneys for personalized guidance.
Business Attorneys
Real Estate Attorneys
Litigation Attorneys
Estate Planning Attorneys
Business Sale Closings
How to Sell a Business in Florida
Contact Information:
Tel: 941-867-7818
Email: info@barneswalker.com
Trust • Experience • Results