We contacted Thomas Mayfield of Mortgage Closers and A-1 Signing Service to get his opinion on what "Going above and beyond" meant to his company. Go to www.mortgageclosers.net and see for yourself. Thomas Mayfield offers nationwide mobile mortgage closings, residential and commercial title services, appraisals, flood determinations, abstracting services and settlement services.

1) Please tell us a little about yourself and your Organization

I started A-1 Signing Services, Inc., at the request of many Brokers that I had trained as Loan Officers across the Country. The biggest problem they faced and still challenges the Industry today, is finding a good Notary that understand the documents and can guide the borrower through the signing process.

2) In selecting a Notary to work with your Organization, what do you look for?

When an individual is looking to join A-1 Signing Services, we screen pretty carefully. I have developed a National Reputation for Excellance in the execution of the loan documents. We do a reference check and sometimes test anyone that appears non-seasoned as a Notary Signing Agent. The Client's we serve demand experienced and knowledgable notaries.

3) What (in your opinion) should a Notary/Signing Agent do to stand out from the rest?

For anyone that wants to standout from their peer group a couple things needs to happen.They should seek some mentoring from a "seasoned notary" and also take a couple classes. We offer training a couple times a year and the one comment we hear time and time again is, "I have been doing Refi's what else is there to know? " That type of mentality will limit anyone in this business!
A notary must also be willing to take coaching and criticism from a Title Company or Lender. I also have a National Title Company and once in a while we come across a notary who will refuse to follow instructions or directions on a signing. So, being "coachable is key to success!"

4) If a Notary was part of a Network of Notaries in their area, would this be of benefit to you and your organization?

We are always interested in knowing where there is a Network of notaries that have experience in conducting signings. We are a National Signing Company, so you can never have enough contacts out there.

5) If you could give any advise to Notary Signing Agents who are trying to build their business, (whether they are New to the industry or seasoned) what would it be?

One important piece of advice I would give to anyone who is serious about a "career" as a signer is- Be available, especially at Month -end. I am amazed how many notaries advertise, but never update their contact info or answer their phones or emails. I am also surprised at how many notaries "out-price themselves in the marketplace".
The "Market" has shifted, and if you want to work, you need to have "Competitive and Realistic pricing"

6) Final comments

I applaud your efforts in building an Organization to educate and service Notaries.

Thomas Mayfield
President,CEO
A-1 Signing Services, Inc.
www.mortgageclosers.net