FAQ

Real Estate Background Checks and the Real Estate Background Directory are a cooperative effort between the National Notary Association and Backgrounds Online. We provided answers to our frequently asked questions, but if something isn’t covered here then please contact us at 888-602-8074 or support@rebackgrounds.com.

General

We have a background screening package that was specifically designed for people in the Real Estate / Finance industry. It includes:
  • Identity Verification
  • 10-Year County Criminal Search*
  • 10-Year Federal Criminal
  • National Sex Offender Search
  • National Criminal Database Search
  • Motor Vehicle Records Search
  • USA Patriot Act Search
*Some states only allow records to be reported for 7 years.

This package meets all industry recommendations and requirements.

Most background checks take 3 -5 business days.

There can be delays due to court and other closures that are beyond our control. If a report will be delayed for a significant time, we will inform you as soon as possible.

When a background check is complete, it is reviewed for any hits, such as criminal records or driving infractions. Every type of offense has a corresponding score. If something is returned in a report, it will be scored accordingly. Scores for each item are totaled and that is used to determine a Pass or Fail outcome.

Click the Sign Up button at the top of the page. You’ll be asked to enter information to create an account and provide a Security Question and Answer. That will be used if you ever forget your password.

When we receive an order, our highly experienced processing team gets to work immediately. We start with Identity Verification. This is done to ensure each component in the report is for the proper person.

Then we go directly to the source, such as county courthouses and state DMVs, to get the most current, complete and accurate data available.

Professionals

Everyone who works in the Real Estate or Financial industry should be background screened. This is done to show potential clients and employers that you have completed your due diligence and been approved for employment based on scoring criteria created by the Signing Professionals Workgroup (SPW). Examples of professionals who should be screened include:
  • Attorneys
  • Appraisers
  • Abstractors
  • Real Estate Agents
  • Home Inspectors
  • Contractors

If you believe something on your background check is incorrect, you can file a dispute with Backgrounds Online, the Consumer Reporting Agency that compiled the report.

The Directory is a resource for individuals and organizations to identify real estate and financial professionals who have current, approved background checks. It offers location and name search options to help visitors get results quickly.

When you order a background check, you will be asked to sign compliance documents and provide the information needed to start the investigation.

Once you are done, you’ll have the option to add your information to the Directory. This can include your:

  • License number
  • License state
  • Contact information
  • Website
  • Photo
  • A screenshot of your license

Employers

Yes. You can run background checks on employees and candidates. All screenings are conducted by Backgrounds Online, a 20+ year leader in the industry that is accredited by the Professional Background Screening Association.

If you have questions or need assistance, please contact us.

If you’re ready to begin, send us a message via our Team Solutions page. Fill out the short form and one of our experienced team members will get back to you right away.

Yes. Backgrounds Online has a vast network of researchers who obtain records directly from county courthouses. This ensures the data you receive is current, accurate and up-to-date.

We recommend screening annually to ensure each person’s background check remains clear and to keep them current on the Directory.

Yes. Our clients must have a permissible purpose and certify they will comply with the FCRA. We only begin the screening process after signed disclosure and authorization documents are procured. Every member of our processing team is required to earn and maintain their FCRA certification.

Yes. Data security is a top priority. We undergo an annual SOC 2 Type 2 audit by an independent third party. Each time, our SOC 2 report has been returned with no exceptions. This shows that we meet the security standards established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).

Yes, Backgrounds Online is accredited by the Professional Background Screening Association. This shows that we uphold the highest standards of:
  • Consumer Protection
  • Compliance
  • Business Practices
  • Client Education
  • Research and Verification Standards
Home Team Solutions Verify Directory FAQ Privacy Policy Contact
Invite Someone You Know To Real Estate Background Checks
Send Invite