Appointment & Authority
State the exact authority granted (signing, filing, lodging with registry), any limits on that authority, and whether authority is exclusive or non-exclusive.
A concise appointment agreement reduces misunderstandings, evidences authority for registration or settlement, and allocates responsibility for fees and compliance. It also creates an auditable record of the parties’ intent and helps protect both client and conveyancer against liability.
Common users include buyers, sellers, conveyancers, title companies, and lenders who need a formal appointment before filings or settlements.
Use the checklist below to match roles to responsibilities and ensure the correct signatories and authority levels are captured.
State the exact authority granted (signing, filing, lodging with registry), any limits on that authority, and whether authority is exclusive or non-exclusive.
Describe tasks (title search, drafting transfer deed, registration, settlement attendance), deliverables, and any milestones for completion.
Specify fixed fees, hourly rates, retainer amounts, escrow handling, and who pays government recording or search fees.
Include required client-supplied documents, identity verification steps, forwarding instructions for proceeds, and deadlines for approvals.
Set out termination rights, notice periods, indemnities, and limits on conveyancer liability consistent with state law.
Disclose any conflicts of interest and confirm compliance obligations such as anti-money laundering checks or lender requirements.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Upload Document | Use PDF or DOCX; ensure final wording before placing fields. |
| Add Signature Fields | Place signature, date, and initial fields for each party. |
| Set Signer Order | Define sequential or parallel signing to control execution sequence. |
| Authentication Method | Choose email, SMS code, or stronger ID verification as needed. |
Ensure the chosen process preserves audit data (timestamps, IP, signer email) and meets any sector-specific compliance such as HIPAA or 21 CFR Part 11 when applicable.
Execute at least several business days before scheduled settlement.
County recording may require submission within contractually specified days.
Timing affects property tax proration and closing statements.
Disbursements often follow confirmed receipt of executed appointment.
Lender may require appointment execution before funding.
Parties sign and date the agreement; authority becomes effective.
Conveyancer completes required identity verification and anti-money-laundering screening.
Title issues are identified and cleared prior to filing.
Deed or transfer recorded and proof returned to parties.
A regional property manager standardized appointment forms to enable remote closings and reduce in-person meetings.
A healthcare-related property transfer required strict privacy controls and documented authority for third-party agents.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |