Instagram, Tinder, Twitch…digital natives are relying on platforms like these to make connections, build relationships, and get things done. The real estate world has also been heading further down the digital path, with the advent of digital closings.

Fully digital or hybrid closings increased last year to 10% of all transactions, compared to 7% of such deals closed in 2021, according to a study by ALTA, which polled 399 title professionals and businesses from across 46 states and Washington, D.C.

With relationships traditionally at the center of a real estate agent’s business, is there a reason to feel threatened by digital closings making inroads at the closing table? While some may view digital closings as a hindrance to human interactions, you are in a unique position to embrace the technology that may help to foster a deeper connection with Millennial and Gen Z buyers. Think about it…digital natives have grown up with these technologies and have a lower barrier to entry on remote technologies and solutions. Why would they not be willing to allow it to help them buy a home?

In the states where this is available, Virtual Close® gives agents and sellers the flexibility of Remote Online Notarization (RON) and fully digital closings through a collaborative platform that streamlines the process.

These transactions deliver a seamless, secure, and convenient closing experience, providing a viable option for all-cash purchases as well as for sellers who may be closing from out-of-state, dealing with harsh weather, looking to social distance, or are simply short on time.

Your clients may have found a home they were initially interested in looking at through an online search. They are used to speedily checking the boxes to filter what they’re looking for, and having Niche reports available immediately at their fingertips to give them a better idea of a neighborhood they’re interested in.

With Virtual Close® you can increase the speed of a closing by having documents delivered faster, allowing for shorter signing appointments and funding times; along with multifactor authentication and stronger security measures than a traditional mail-away transaction. Your Millennial and Gen Z buyers are more than likely to like the sound of that, and they will trust that this technology can help you ensure they have the smoothest closing possible. This all contributes to strengthening your relationship with those clients.

Some barriers still exist when it comes to lender adoption of digital closings, but why not position yourself to adapt to the preferences of the next generation of buyers? Become a part of the group that helps to bridge the gap between traditional closings and digital closings, by making smart use of tools like Virtual Close®.

Please reach out to your title representative if you have any more questions on Virtual Close®.*

*VirtualClose® is currently available in select markets. Contact your title representative for more information.

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This material is meant for general illustration and/or informational purposes only. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, no representation is made as to its accuracy. This material is not intended to be construed as legal, tax or investment advice. You are encouraged to consult your legal, tax or investment professional for specific advice.

About Bobbi Pronin

Bobbi Pronin is an award-winning writer based in Orange County, Calif. A former news editor with more than 30 years of experience in journalism and corporate communications, she has specialized in real estate topics for over a decade.

Bobbi is not an employee of Anywhere Integrated Services or affiliated with its title companies.