Trying to buy or sell in Lakewood while you are across the state or country? You should not have to fly in just to sign papers. Remote closings can keep your move on track, save travel costs, and reduce stress. In this guide, you will learn how remote closings work in Colorado, what Jefferson County requires, and how to protect yourself from risks like wire fraud. Let’s dive in.
What a remote closing means in Colorado
A remote closing lets you sign most or all of your documents electronically and complete any required notarizations by live audio-video session. You still follow the same contract steps, but you finish the paperwork from wherever you are.
The legal foundation
Federal law recognizes electronic signatures. Under the ESIGN Act and the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act, electronic records and signatures can carry the same legal effect as paper when all parties agree to transact electronically. Colorado has adopted UETA, so e-signatures are widely used for real estate contracts and many closing documents when everyone consents.
Remote online notarization in Colorado
Colorado allows remote online notarization, often called RON. A RON session uses live audio-video with an authorized notary. You complete identity checks, then sign electronically while the notary witnesses and applies a RON certificate. The platform creates a tamper-evident record and retains the session recording as required by state rules.
Recording in Jefferson County
Recording offices decide how they accept documents. Many counties allow electronic submission and accept documents notarized through RON if they meet local rules. Before you schedule a fully remote closing, confirm the Jefferson County Clerk and Recorder’s current policy on e-recording and acceptance of RON documents. Your title company will verify the format, required certificates, and any county-specific forms.
Remote closing models that work in Lakewood
Different transactions call for different methods. Here are the common setups you can use for a Lakewood closing.
Full RON closing
You sign and notarize everything through a RON platform. Documents return as tamper-evident e-records that can be submitted electronically if the county accepts them. This is often the fastest option when all parties and the county are aligned.
Hybrid or mail-away closing
Some documents are signed electronically, while a few items that need original ink are overnighted to the title company. If lender or county rules require paper originals, this method blends convenience with compliance.
Mobile notary visit
A mobile notary meets you at your location to witness wet-ink signatures. This is helpful if identity checks for RON are not possible, or if a lender requires ink on certain forms.
Remote signing with in-person funding
You sign most paperwork remotely, then funding or recording waits on delivery of originals or a final in-person step. This can keep schedules flexible while meeting any remaining requirements.
Step-by-step: How a Colorado remote closing works
Every transaction is unique, but most Lakewood remote closings follow a similar path.
1) Contract and loan processing
You negotiate your contract and complete inspections, appraisal, and underwriting. Remote options do not change these steps, but they can make timing more flexible.
2) Title work and closing prep
Your title company assembles the closing package, payoff figures, prorations, and draft recording documents. This is also when they confirm HOA estoppels and any municipal payoffs.
3) Confirm the remote method
Early in the process, you and your agent, lender, and title company decide whether to use full RON, a hybrid, or a mail-away. The title company checks with Jefferson County on acceptance of the planned document format.
4) Identity verification
Before notarization, you complete ID-proofing. This can include an ID scan, credential analysis, or knowledge-based authentication, depending on the platform and state rules.
5) Live notary session
At the appointment time, you join a secure audio-video session with the notary. You sign as the notary watches, then the notary applies the required RON certificate. The platform produces a tamper-evident record of the documents and session.
6) Closing funds
You coordinate wire transfers with the title company and lender. Always verify wiring instructions by phone using a trusted number before sending funds.
7) Recording
Documents go to the Jefferson County Recorder either electronically or as originals, depending on the method used and county rules. Your title company handles submission and confirms acceptance.
8) Final delivery and possession
You receive copies of your final file. After funding and recording, the parties follow the contract for possession and key exchange.
Your Lakewood relocation checklist
Pre-closing: 2 to 6 weeks out
- Decide if you want a remote closing and notify your agent, lender, and title company.
- Confirm with the title company whether Jefferson County will accept RON documents or if any originals are needed.
- Verify your lender and title company support the chosen platform and ask for system requirements.
- Prepare a valid government photo ID and any details needed for identity checks.
- Arrange homeowners insurance and provide proof to the lender.
Tech and logistics: 2 to 7 days out
- Test your internet, webcam, mic, and a quiet, well-lit space for the session.
- Confirm whether desktop or mobile is recommended for your platform.
- Get wiring instructions in writing and verify them by phone using a trusted number for the title company.
- If a mail-away is required, plan for overnight shipping and tracking. Build in extra time for delivery and processing.
Day of closing
- Keep your photo ID and any documents handy.
- Allow 30 to 90 minutes for the live session and any troubleshooting.
- Expect a short wait for funding and recording confirmation.
- Confirm how and when keys will be delivered, such as a lockbox, your agent, or a courier.
Typical timelines
- With full RON and county e-recording, many closings record within 24 to 72 hours after final signing, subject to lender funding and county schedules.
- If originals must be mailed, plan for an added 2 to 5 business days for courier transit and recording.
Risks and how to reduce them
Remote closings are efficient, but they still require careful verification. Use these best practices to protect your money and identity.
Wire transfer and closing-funds fraud
- Never rely only on email for wiring instructions. Call a verified phone number for the title company to confirm before you send funds.
- Treat any change to wiring instructions as a red flag. Confirm changes by phone using a trusted number.
- Ask your title company about same-day verbal verification and confirm expectations in writing.
Identity verification and privacy
- Use a reputable RON platform selected by your title company.
- Review platform privacy terms, including how long the session recording is stored and who retains it.
- Have your ID and supporting documents ready to reduce the chance of failed verification.
Recording acceptance and document integrity
- Do not assume the county will accept every remote format. Ask your title company to verify Jefferson County’s current acceptance rules for RON documents and e-recording.
- If a lender requires ink on a specific form, plan for a hybrid or mail-away to avoid delays.
When RON may not be a fit
- Some clients may not pass identity checks due to limited credit history or unavailable credentials.
- A mobile notary, mail-away option, or in-office signing can resolve most issues.
- Certain document types may have special rules. Ask your title or legal advisor if you need a power of attorney or estate-related document.
Lakewood specifics to keep in mind
Every county and city has local details that affect your closing process and statement.
- Recording and e-recording: The Jefferson County Clerk and Recorder sets acceptance policies. Your title company will confirm whether e-recording is available and what formatting is required.
- HOAs and districts: Many Lakewood homes are in homeowners associations or metropolitan districts. Ask your title company to order HOA estoppels and district payoffs early to prevent delays.
- Taxes and assessments: Jefferson County property tax schedules and any local assessments can impact prorations. Review your draft closing disclosure and settlement statement carefully.
- Utilities and services: Plan setup for water, power, internet, and trash pickup in advance. Your agent and title company can point you to local service providers and city resources.
Who to contact and what to confirm
- Title company: Confirm the closing method, platform, wiring instructions, and recording process.
- Lender: Verify acceptance of RON or hybrid methods and any documents that must be wet signed.
- Jefferson County Clerk and Recorder: Make sure your document type and notarization method are acceptable for recording.
- Colorado Secretary of State: Review general RON requirements if you have questions about notary rules.
- Your agent: Coordinate logistics, deadlines, and possession details, and get referrals for title and mobile notaries if needed.
Make your remote closing simple
Relocating to Lakewood should not hinge on plane tickets or time off work. With the right plan, a remote closing can be smooth, secure, and on time. If you want a team that plans every step, confirms county requirements, and keeps you safe from wire fraud, we are here to help. Connect with Lydia’s Home Team to map your timeline and choose the best remote closing option for your move.
FAQs
Is a remote real estate closing legal in Colorado?
- Yes. Colorado recognizes electronic signatures and allows remote online notarization under state rules when the parties agree to transact electronically.
Will Jefferson County record a deed notarized remotely?
- It depends on the county’s current acceptance policy. Ask your title company to confirm Jefferson County’s e-recording and RON acceptance before scheduling a full RON closing.
Can I close from out of state if I am buying in Lakewood?
- Often yes. Many lenders and title companies support RON or mail-away workflows. Confirm acceptance and document requirements early.
What technology do I need for a RON session?
- A stable internet connection, a compatible device with webcam and microphone, and a valid government photo ID. Your title company will provide platform specifics.
How do I avoid wire fraud during a remote closing?
- Call a verified phone number for your title company to confirm wiring instructions before you send any funds. Do not rely on email alone and verify any changes by phone.
What if I cannot pass the identity checks?
- You can use a mobile notary, switch to a hybrid or mail-away closing, or schedule an in-office signing at the title company.
