It’s time to electronically sign
The ability to electronically sign real estate agreements and forms will be a big step forward for the profession.
by John Cunningham , President REINSW
With each passing day we find ourselves increasingly challenged by the pace of change, particularly when it comes to the impact of technology. The world we live in today is fundamentally different from what it was 10 or even five years ago. Every day, we are under pressure to respond faster and work more efficiently.
In this environment, it is startling that we still resort to the traditional pen and paper when signing and exchanging agency agreements and other documents. In years gone by our marketplace was limited to our suburb or our city, but the world has changed and we are now working globally. Our clients are from different cities, different states and different countries. We deal with vendors and purchasers transacting property across the globe, and sending physical agreements and documents to multiple locations for signature is undoubtedly an inefficient way to do business.
Electronic signatures allow contracts and agreements to be turned around in seconds, rather than the hours or even days it can sometimes take to complete an agreement in hard copy. An electronic signature can move between a solicitor, conveyancer, real estate agent, vendor, purchaser, landlord and tenant instantly, allowing for greater transactional and cost efficiencies.
“It is critical for NSW to step to the forefront … This will significantly benefit the consumer and the industry.”