Patchwork of state laws in US hinders 21st century remote notarisation

New York

AS Chuck DeBonis was wrapping up his stint as a civilian paramedic at a military base in Kuwait earlier this year, he found a home that he wanted to buy in the Virginia town of Bristow for his return.

The problem? His mortgage lender wanted him to sign paperwork, in person, in front of a notary public. So the 30-year-old flew 10,460 km to sign on the dotted line. "It was ridiculous and unnecessary," Mr DeBonis said in recounting his 14-hour trip.