Real Estate Closings Made Easy: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know About Remote Online Notarization (RON)

Buying or selling property in Florida is exciting—but sometimes the logistics can feel overwhelming. Traditionally, closings meant gathering everyone in the same room with stacks of paperwork, a notary, and plenty of signatures. But thanks to technology and Florida’s legal framework, there’s now a modern alternative: Remote Online Closings (RON). With RON, you can close from your living room, your office, or even while sipping coffee on vacation.

So, how does it work, and is it the right option for you? Let’s break down everything buyers and sellers need to know.

What Is Remote Online Notarization (RON)?

Remote Online Notarization (RON) allows documents to be notarized electronically through audio-video communication, rather than requiring in-person meetings. Florida was one of the early adopters of RON, passing legislation in 2019 that made it legal for notaries to perform notarizations online using secure platforms.

In real estate, RON has transformed closings by letting buyers, sellers, and lenders complete the entire process online. You log in to a secure system, meet with a notary virtually, verify your identity, and sign documents electronically—all without ever stepping into a title office.

Florida’s Legal Framework for RON

Florida law lays out specific requirements to ensure RON closings are secure and enforceable. Some key features include:

Authorized Notaries: Not all notaries can perform RON. They must complete a state-approved course and register with the Florida Department of State.

Identity Verification: Buyers and sellers must pass identity proofing using government-issued IDs and knowledge-based authentication questions.

Audio-Video Recording: The notary session is recorded and stored for at least 10 years, providing a clear audit trail.

Tamper-Evident Documents: Electronic signatures are secured with technology that detects any alterations.

Florida’s framework strikes a balance between convenience and consumer protection, giving peace of mind that your closing is both legal and secure.

The Technology Behind Remote Closings

A successful RON closing requires secure, industry-approved platforms. These systems are designed with multiple safeguards to protect sensitive financial and personal information. Features typically include:

• Encryption to secure transmissions.
• Multi-factor authentication to verify participants.
• Electronic journals and recordings that create a permanent record.

Title companies and real estate attorneys in Florida partner with trusted technology providers to ensure every closing complies with both state law and industry standards.

Security and Fraud Prevention

Understandably, some buyers and sellers worry about security when it comes to online transactions. After all, a real estate closing involves large sums of money and sensitive personal details. RON platforms are designed with these concerns in mind:

• Strict identity proofing prevents impersonation.
• Secure document storage ensures that signed files can’t be altered later.
• Recorded video sessions act as powerful evidence if disputes ever arise.

In fact, RON closings can often be more secure than traditional paper closings, since they create multiple layers of authentication and a permanent digital record.

When RON Closings Make Sense

Remote Online Closings are not just convenient—they can be game-changers in certain situations:

Out-of-State Buyers and Sellers: If you’re purchasing a Florida property but live elsewhere, RON eliminates the need for travel.

Tight Schedules: Closings can happen after work hours or on weekends, offering unmatched flexibility.

Health and Safety Concerns: Especially in recent years, RON has been a safer option for those wishing to avoid in-person meetings.

Busy Professionals: Save time by logging in from your office or home rather than traveling to a title company.

However, not every transaction is eligible. Some lenders or title insurers may require in-person signings, particularly for complex deals. Always confirm with your real estate attorney before assuming RON is an option.

Buyer and Seller Obligations

Even though RON streamlines the process, buyers and sellers still have responsibilities:

• Buyers should confirm with their lender that RON is acceptable.
• Sellers should verify that their documents are prepared correctly for electronic notarization.
• Both parties should ensure they have reliable internet access, a computer with a camera, and a valid ID for verification.

Working with an experienced Florida real estate attorney ensures that no detail gets overlooked.

The Role of a Real Estate Attorney in RON

While technology powers the process, a skilled real estate attorney is the key to a smooth RON closing. Attorneys ensure:

• Compliance with Florida law throughout the transaction.
• Review of contracts and documents before anything is signed.
• Resolution of title issues that might delay closing.
• Guidance through the RON platform, making sure every step is handled correctly.

At DuFault Law, we regularly help clients close transactions online, ensuring security, efficiency, and peace of mind.

The Bottom Line

Remote Online Closings are changing the way Florida real estate deals get done. They offer unmatched convenience, security, and flexibility—but they also require strict compliance with Florida law and technology standards. For many buyers and sellers, RON is the modern solution that eliminates stress, saves time, and makes the dream of property ownership easier to achieve.

If you’re considering buying or selling real estate in Florida, understanding RON could be the key to a smoother, faster closing experience.

Ready to Close Your Florida Real Estate Deal Without Leaving Home?

At DuFault Law, we make closings simple, secure, and stress-free with Remote Online Notarization (RON). Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or investor, our team ensures every legal detail is handled with precision, so you can close with confidence—from anywhere.

• Call us at (239) 422-6400
• Email us at contact@dufaultlaw.com
• Or Visit our Contact Page to schedule a consultation