We've placed some ARF deals through the years and never had an issue. Only person who met the client for closing was a Notary. We still get paid renewals on deals that originally funded years ago.

ARF has a niche. If a deal fits the box they're tough to beat.

On another thread topic, I'm not sure why a broker would be upset about a funder calling the client. Funders are the ones with the financial risk. They have every right to glean as much info as possible before hitting the button. Client calls are an integral part of final approval on a larger deal. Smaller deals should be looser though.