The documents need to be notarized on the sellers end and mailed back overnight to the title company.

If not, are all those systems properly installed and functioning as expected?

I would just check with the bank you want to refi with and what documents they require to be notarized.

In addition he needs to watch the person sign on video to notarize the document and still receive the paper to seal the document. 

This does not place the house as collateral and You sign it, not him.2) Mortgage (or Deed of Trust in some areas) is the document, must be notarized and recorded, that actually pledges the house as security.There are “standard” versions kicking all around the internet but typically you use a local attorney for theses, and the recording.

Our apartment requires us to notarize the roommate release form

Review all info. already "pre-printed" on form, such as the price being reported to the IRS and more, ....for accuracy).Deed (must be notarized, along with two witnesses.

You can also have title companies express ship the paperwork and have it notarized and sent it back.

Or should we draw up an agreement and have it notarized?

Has anyone had to purchase a home from overseas without having the ability to notarize any power of attorneys?