My homebuyer clients like that I attend their loan closings but it's not because I do anything. When I attend, I usually review the closing statement, note, and deed of trust and then I drink cofee for an hour while the notary does his/her job.
Three reasons why I attend closings:
1- I want to be there if there are any questions about the closing documents.
2- Clients who have professional attend their closing tend to be more satisfied with performance.
It absolutely matters whether or not loan officers attend their closings. Being present to explain rates and fees to the borrower is just one example of where a loan officer can mitigate a potentially negative borrower experience. Add in delayed starts to closings, unresolved problems, and confusion regarding last minute changes and you begin to understand the importance of face-to-face interaction between loan officers and borrowers at the closing table.
3- I ask for referrals at that point because I know buyers are happy. Doing good business results in more good business.