Signing agents specialize in real estate document signings, especially mortgages, conducting signings and notarizing where necessary. Notary publics have broader authority, verifying signatures on various documents and administering oaths, often performing additional official acts such as certifying copies. While both verify signatures, signing agents require specific training, including yearly background checks, focusing solely on real estate transactions, whereas notary publics have a wider scope of duties within their state of commission.