Ensuring seamless coordination between multiple parties is crucial when investing in notes. From negotiation to servicing, each step must be carefully executed to align the investor’s objectives with the operational requirements. Here’s a concise guide on how to synchronize your servicer with your note investment for optimal outcomes.
- Initial Negotiation and Selection: The investor begins by identifying a note for investment and negotiating its purchase. During this phase, they also choose preferred Escrow and Note Servicing Companies based on factors like reputation, reliability, and compatibility with their investment strategy.
- Custodian Instruction and Funding: Once the note is selected, the investor instructs their Custodian/Administrator to use funds from their Self-Directed Account to execute the purchase. They explicitly specify the chosen Note Servicing Center as part of this instruction, ensuring seamless coordination between all parties involved.
- Document Preparation and Delivery: The note seller prepares the necessary documentation, including the Assignment with a notarized signature, and delivers it alongside the original promissory note to the designated Escrow Company. This step ensures the legal transfer of ownership is properly documented and executed.
- Funding Transfer and Custodial Holding: The Custodian promptly transfers the funds to Escrow for the note purchase while retaining possession of the note. This financial transaction is crucial for completing the acquisition while adhering to self-directed account regulations and requirements.
- Servicer Authorization and Documentation: The Custodian notifies the chosen Note Servicing Center, granting them authorization to service the note. Additionally, the servicer is instructed to sign and return any necessary documents to formalize the servicing agreement.
- Completion of Escrow and Documentation Exchange: Once the note purchase escrow is finalized, Escrow provides the Note Servicing Center with a copy of the note and assignment, along with any signed paperwork. This exchange ensures that all parties are informed of the transaction’s completion and have access to relevant documentation.
- Servicing Setup and Borrower Notification: The Note Servicing Center proceeds to set up servicing for the note and notifies the borrower accordingly. This notification includes essential information such as payment instructions, welcome messages, directions, and any necessary payment coupons or envelopes, streamlining the borrower’s payment process.
- Payment Collection and Distribution: The Note Servicing Center diligently collects payments from the borrower and handles the distribution of funds. After deducting the servicing fee, the remaining funds are sent to the Custodian on behalf of the investor, ensuring accurate and timely payment processing.
- Note on Fund Transfer Method: It’s important to note that the Note Servicing Center can only transfer funds to the Custodian using a check. This limitation is due to the current lack of functionality within the Automatic Clearing House (ACH) program to directly transmit funds into individual investor accounts.
By following these steps, investors can effectively coordinate the various parties involved in the note investment process, facilitating smooth transactions and ensuring the efficient management of their investment portfolio.
