Real Estate News

What to Expect From a Fully Digital Closing Experience

A fully digital closing experience transforms traditional real estate transactions through electronic signatures, virtual document reviews, and remote notarization, offering convenience and efficiency

flareAI Services

18 Sep 2025 — 6 min read

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The real estate closing process, once a ritual of ink-stained fingers and conference rooms, has gone digital and it's changing everything. For buyers and sellers in Michigan and Florida, where every penny counts, a new era defined by transparency and technology is taking shape. Driven by the NAR settlement and a surge in digital tools, the closing table is now a secure, online hub. Platforms like Side Door are leading the charge, offering guided workflows and a la carte services that empower independent homeowners to navigate transactions with confidence, saving time and money in the process.

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The New Rules Reshaping Real Estate

In August 2024, the National Association of Realtor's settlement shook up the industry, fundamentally altering how commissions are negotiated. No longer are buyer's agents guaranteed a cut from the seller's proceeds; instead, commissions are now fully negotiable, giving buyers and sellers more room to haggle. According to Yahoo Finance, these changes haven't drastically slashed costs yet, but they've opened the door to more flexible, cost-efficient options. For instance, platforms like Side Door let users pick specific services say, a pricing consultation or a title review without committing to a full-service agent's 5-6% commission.

This shift dovetails with a broader trend: the rise of digital closings. In regions like Michigan, West Michigan, Holland, and Florida, remote online notarization (RON) and e-signatures are streamlining transactions. The 2025 Housing Forecast from Realtor.com predicts a balanced market for the first time in nearly a decade, with mortgage rates dipping to 6.3% and inventory growing by 11.7%. While home prices may rise by 3.7%, rising incomes could make buying more achievable. This forecast underscores the need for tools that simplify the process, especially for those searching “buy a home in Michigan” or “sell my home for less.”

How Digital Closings Work in Practice

Picture a seller in Holland, Michigan, listing their home as a For Sale By Owner (FSBO). Through Side Door, they hire a vetted agent for a flat fee to craft a marketing plan, then manage showings and negotiations themselves via a digital dashboard. When it's time to close, documents are signed electronically, and a remote notary finalizes the deal all without a single in-person meeting. Or consider a Florida buyer purchasing a condo from out of state. Using RON, they notarize documents over a secure video call, while Side Door coordinates with lenders and inspectors to keep everything on track. These aren't futuristic fantasies; they're today's reality.

What sets Side Door apart is its integration of title companies, lenders, and inspectors into a single, cohesive platform. Unlike traditional setups where miscommunication can derail deals, this streamlined approach ensures everyone's aligned. It's a lifeline for independent buyers and sellers who want control without the overwhelm, especially those Googling “where to start in real estate” or “michigan real estate.”

Real Stories, Real Savings

In West Michigan, a seller recently used Side Door to handle an FSBO sale. They paid a flat fee for an agent to set a competitive price but managed the rest themselves, from showings to contract reviews. The closing was fully digital, with e-signatures and a remote notary wrapping things up in days. The result? Thousands saved in commissions without sacrificing professional input. In Florida, a buyer closed on a condo across state lines, using Side Door to coordinate with a title company and lender. The entire process, from offer to keys, was handled online, proving that distance is no longer a barrier.

Competitors like WestEdge Realty and Real Estate One offer robust services, but their full-service models can feel rigid for cost-conscious users. Side Door's strength lies in its customization buyers and sellers can select exactly what they need, whether it's a home inspection or a quick consult with an agent. This flexibility resonates with those searching “get more leads for my real estate business,” as it allows professionals to showcase their expertise to a wider audience.

The Roadblocks and How to Navigate Them

Digital closings aren't flawless. For some, especially those less comfortable with technology, navigating a digital platform can feel like deciphering code. Regulatory differences also pose challenges while Michigan and Florida embrace RON, not every county accepts e-recorded documents, which can slow things down. Cybersecurity is another concern; with sensitive financial data at stake, platforms must prioritize robust encryption to protect users.

The NAR settlement has also sparked confusion. Some buyers mistakenly believe agents now work for free, when in reality, commissions are simply more negotiable. As List With Clever notes, buyers and sellers can now push for lower rates, but success depends on market conditions and negotiation skills. Side Door, as a startup, also faces skepticism about its less-polished website compared to competitors like Premier Lakeshore, who invest heavily in marketing. Yet its practitioner-led, hands-on approach is winning over users who value substance over flash.

Why Digital Closings Are a Game-Changer

The benefits are undeniable. By opting for a la carte services, buyers and sellers can save thousands think $2,000 for a title review versus $20,000 for a full commission. Coordinated workflows cut closing times, sometimes by weeks, as professionals sync up in real time. For agents, title companies, and inspectors, platforms like Side Door offer new opportunities to connect with clients, especially those who might otherwise go it alone. In a market dominated by big players like Lake Michigan Credit Union, Side Door's lean, user-focused model gives it a unique edge.

Take a hypothetical $300,000 home sale. Pre-NAR settlement, a 6% commission split evenly between agents would cost $18,000. Post-settlement, a seller might negotiate a 2% buyer's agent commission ($6,000) and use Side Door for a $1,500 flat-fee service, saving $10,500. These savings are especially critical in a market where, as Realtor.com notes, affordability is improving but still tight.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Closings

Experts predict digital closings will become the industry standard, with commission negotiation now a fixture of the market. Blockchain-based property records could further streamline title transfers, making them as secure and instant as a cryptocurrency transaction. For now, buyers and sellers should focus on choosing compliant, secure platforms and brushing up on negotiation tactics. As Realtor.com advises, understanding closing costs and commission structures is key to maximizing savings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much money can I save with a digital closing compared to traditional real estate transactions?

Digital closings can save you thousands of dollars through negotiable commissions and à la carte services. For example, on a $300,000 home sale, you could save up to $10,500 by negotiating a lower buyer's agent commission (2% instead of 3%) and using flat-fee services like Side Door ($1,500) instead of full-service agents. The NAR settlement now allows fully negotiable commissions, giving buyers and sellers more control over costs.

What is remote online notarization (RON) and how does it work in digital closings?

Remote online notarization (RON) allows you to complete your closing documents from anywhere using secure video calls with a certified notary. Instead of meeting in person, you'll sign documents electronically and verify your identity through the video platform. This process is legal in states like Michigan and Florida, enabling buyers to close on properties even when they're located in different states, making the entire transaction faster and more convenient.

Are digital closings secure and legally binding for real estate transactions?

Yes, digital closings are both secure and legally binding when conducted through compliant platforms that use robust encryption and follow state regulations. Electronic signatures and remote notarization are accepted in many states, including Michigan and Florida, though some counties may have varying requirements for e-recorded documents. Platforms like Side Door integrate with vetted title companies, lenders, and inspectors to ensure all legal requirements are met while protecting your sensitive financial data throughout the process.

Disclaimer: The above helpful resources content contains personal opinions and experiences. The information provided is for general knowledge and does not constitute professional advice.

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