I think that would depend on your jurisdiction.

Considering how may documents are signed and then faxed or scanned, what's the difference?

That would be the "good enough until someone complains" part, no?

"The defense asserts that the signature on the faxed document has been Photoshopped, as it is absolutely identical to this copy. Thus the contract is null and void."

I'll have to try preview next time I do this. Thanks for the tip.

Who's going to know whether it's an authentic signature just created and scanned vs a signature that was made 3 years ago. Whether you use GC and pdf or sign and scan, the signature is flattened with the rest of the document.

I think if you're buying a house, car or signing other legal documents, you are best advise not to go this route. Send your documents via fed-ex or snail mail or hand deliver where your signature is in blue or black ink.

You do pose an interesting question and it would be in our best interest if we understood the implications of these electronic signatures.

I bought my last house with scanned signatures. Who's to know?

It's probably ok as long as you or someone have the inked copies somewhere.

That, right there, is the issue. And who's going to know if you inserted it into the document or if someone else did?

chabig: are either you, the seller, or the mortgage holder debating the validity of any agreements? If not, no problem.

That's thanks to hayne, not me. :)