Encompass 2026 Project Planning Part 2: Migrating to Hybrid eClose

Written by: Paul Bates, Senior Technology Consultant

The ICE Encompass digital Lending Platform continues its evolution, offering lenders an array of options to improve the customer experience, enhance efficiencies, and integrate cutting-edge solutions. This article is the second in a series designed to provide strategic options as you build your 2026 technology project list. Today we will explore supercharging your closing process through Encompass Hybrid eClose.

Hybrid eClose – What is it (really)
The Hybrid eClose process allows you borrowers to pre-sign the vast majority of closing documents on or before the closing date.  The small remainder of wet sign required documents (Note, Mortgage, etc.) are then executed at eh closing table or branch depending on the Lenders requirements.

The Customer Experience
The customer experience is significantly enhanced in that  most documents can be reviewed and digitally signed by the applicants in the comfort of their own home or office before the physical closing.  They can take their time reviewing everything and not feel rushed at the closing table.  Additionally the physical closings happen much quicker giving customers more flexibility in scheduling.

The Back Office Benefits
When the applicants digitally sign the document in the eClose are automatically added back into the Encompass eFolder upon execution, eliminating the need to scan signed copies.  The SimpleFile Portal is intuitive and easy to use for both staff and closing agents.

The Implementation Process
The implementation process is fairly straightforward and usually takes 45 to 60 days with half of that dedicated to testing.  The ICE team consists of a specialist from the Docs Solution team specialist and the implementation coordinator.  A Test environment is required. This cannot be tested on your Production Environment using the training folder.

Testing Testing Testing
The testing phase of this is critical to make sure your setup is correct and you back office processes are clearly defined.  A lot of the changes from process will be with your closing team, and once they are familiar with the steps they will embrace this change, as it does simplify their daily tasks

A Phased Approach
A phased approach is prudent, and many Lenders begin with the equity products which usually close in a branch.  The hybrid eClose solution works perfectly  with this.  Even if you do implement hybrid eClose , you always have the option to conduct a pure wet sign closing at the loan level.  You always retain flexibility.

Continuing the Conversation

Hybrid eClose enhances the customer experience, improves efficiencies, and gives you a competitive advantage. In our next installment, we will shift focus to the benefits of converting to Enhanced Conditions in your Encompass environment. If you want to start a conversation on hybrid eClose or any other Encompass-related questions, please contact Paul at pbates@scapartnering.com.