To DocuSign or Not to DocuSign

I’m trying out a new system for signing paperwork with my clients. It’s called DocuSign and instead of the usual chaotic method where I email paperwork to my poor clients and they scramble around looking for a printer and scanner or fax machine and the whole process takes hours, this system is set up to allow people to electronically sign documents and send them back to me in minutes.

So basically, the way it works is that I upload my documents to the ‘envelope wizard’ and then I mark, with little virtual sticky tabs, where my clients are to sign or initial (it even has a feature for checking boxes). I then input my clients’ email address and it sends all of this over to them with a tutorial and explanation of the process.

I had a little user error issue (on my part) with the placement of the sticky tabs the first time I used it, but otherwise it was extremely intuitive and quick.

I have two issues with DocuSign as a whole at this moment:

1. I usually feel more comfortable explaining documents that I’m having my clients sign in person the first time. When I’m writing a first offer with a client (especially a first time buyer), there are a ton of nuances about the contract and process that I likely won’t have had a chance to go over until we are signing the offer. So that’s something that DocuSign can’t circumvent.

2. I’ve been told by my Wells Fargo gal, Tekla, that her underwriters won’t accept electronic signatures. So we will have to go back and have all of these docs for the transaction I’m currently working with her resigned in person (and tragically, BOTH sides are using DocuSign. *SIGH*). That seems like a giant waste of time and more effort than signing in person originally.

So while I love the quickness and user-friendliness of the DocuSign product, I’m not sure I’m completely sold. We will have to see.