E-signature basics

E-signature tools let clients sign contracts on any device with a secure audit trail. Many brokerages and associations already include one.

Step by step

1. Check what's included

   Ask your brokerage and association. Authentisign or DocuSign may already be free for you.

2. Know the basics

   You upload a document, place signature fields, send it, and get a signed copy with an audit trail.

3. Use real estate forms

   Tools connected to your forms library (DocuSign with brokerage tools, or Authentisign with Transact) save time.

4. Pick a plan

   DocuSign Real Estate Starter is $10/user/mo billed annually; Dropbox Sign Essentials is $15/mo billed annually.

Write a client-friendly email explaining our timeline from accepted offer to closing. Key dates: [INSPECTION, APPRAISAL, FINANCING, CLOSING DATES]. For each step, say what happens, what the client needs to do, and what could delay it. Under 300 words, reassuring tone. Use only the dates I gave you.

Good to know

• Check your state's rules on which documents can be signed electronically.
• Keep signed copies in your transaction file.

Recommended tools

DocuSignReal Estate Starter $10/user/mo annual; Real Estate $25/user/mo annual (100 envelopes/user/yr).

Visit

Dropbox SignEssentials $15/mo annual (1 sender); Standard $25/user/mo annual, 2-user minimum.

Visit

Lone Wolf AuthentisignSee vendor pricing; often included with association membership.

Visit

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