Scope of Work
List specific tasks (title search, tax lien check, zoning review, environmental screening, comps) and the geographic or parcel identifiers covered by the engagement.
A clear mandate reduces scope disputes, documents decision points, and creates a record of consent and expectations for lenders, brokers, counsel, and clients. It improves coordination among title, due‑diligence, and closing teams while establishing the basis for billing and liability allocation.
The mandate is most often prepared by parties managing a transaction or asset review and signed by authorized representatives before research work begins.
Proper signatory selection and documented authority avoid later challenges to deliverables and payment obligations.
A designated corporate or project manager who signs to confirm scope, budget, and delivery deadlines. This person must have delegated authority to bind the client for payment and acceptance of research outputs; otherwise, signature may be nonbinding.
An authorized officer or operations lead at the firm performing the research who signs to accept the scope, terms, and limitations of liability, and to confirm access to required data sources and personnel.
List specific tasks (title search, tax lien check, zoning review, environmental screening, comps) and the geographic or parcel identifiers covered by the engagement.
Define report format, required attachments (certified records, maps), acceptable file formats (PDF/DOCX), and who will receive final outputs.
Specify start date, interim milestones, final delivery deadline, and timeframes for responses to clarification requests or additional document needs.
Describe pricing model (flat fee, hourly, per‑parcel), invoicing schedule, reimbursable costs, and late payment terms.
Identify who may instruct changes, who signs approvals, and any required notarization or witness steps for acceptance or certification.
State professional responsibility limits, indemnity clauses, and dispute resolution process including applicable governing law.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signer Order | Sequential or parallel signing |
| Authentication | Email, SMS code, or stronger |
| Attachments | Allow PDF/DOCX uploads |
| Notifications | Email reminders on due dates |
Use an eSignature and document platform that supports audit trails, secure storage, and common file formats to preserve enforceability and reproducibility.
Platforms should support export to PDF/A, maintain tamper evidence or an audit trail, and integrate with document repositories for retention and compliance workflows.
1–2 business days after receipt
3–7 business days, depends on search depth
Typically 7–14 business days for standard scope
Available for added fee; turnaround 24–72 hours
2–5 business days for clarifications
A regional brokerage needed rapid title, tax, and zoning checks for multiple parcels
An investment firm required repeatable mandates for portfolio due diligence
| 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 | No | No | No | No |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |