And now for something totally off-topic and completely unrelated to ebay or auction sniper! This question is for someone from the UK.

The USA has individuals known as Notary Publics whose job is to verify the identity and signature of individuals when signing important documents such as contracts, deeds, titles, etc. Does the UK have Notary Publics or someone who serves a similar function?

A brief explanation for the question -- I'm considering purchasing a piece of real estate in the states that is presumably(?) owned by someone currently living in the UK. The transaction can be completed by mail, but the services of a Notary Public is necessary when she signs the new deed.

What a silly question! I did a google search on "uk notary public" and got all sorts of notary public related sites listed! So the answer to that question is obviously, "YES!" A follow up question would be, what are the average rates for UK notary public services?

http://www.thenotariessociety.org.uk/

Contact their professional body for more info.

And, with the GBP at an all time low, I would suggest that you put off any USA (or European) purchase until we get rid of Gordon Brown - sorry, I meant until the economic climate improves!!!!

R2