Escrow
Escrow, explained — and coordinated in-house.
Escrow is the neutral process that holds funds and documents until every condition of a sale is met. Charles's brokerage operates Socal Trusted Escrow, a non-independent broker escrow, which can handle escrow for transactions in which his brokerage represents a party.
May be a good fit if…
- You are buying or selling through Charles's brokerage.
- You want fewer hand-offs between your broker and escrow.
- You want a clear timeline of escrow steps and deadlines.
What to know
What escrow does
Escrow collects deposits, orders payoff demands, coordinates with title and lenders, and records the deed when conditions are met.
Broker escrow
California allows a licensed broker to act as escrow holder for transactions in which the broker represents a party. It is not an independent escrow company.
Wire safety
Always confirm wiring instructions by phone using a number you already know. Escrow will never change instructions by email.
Questions worth asking
- What are the key deadlines in my escrow?
- What documents will I need to sign, and when?
- How will funds be wired, and how will I confirm instructions?
Frequently asked questions
How long does escrow take in California?
Often 30 to 45 days for a financed purchase, and sometimes less for cash. The timeline is set in the purchase contract.
Who chooses the escrow company?
The buyer and seller agree on escrow in the purchase contract. You are always free to choose an independent escrow company.
What is a non-independent broker escrow?
Escrow handled by a licensed real estate broker for transactions in which the broker represents a party, as allowed under California law, rather than by an independent licensed escrow company.
Related reading
Want advice for your situation?
Charles Nguyen, California Real Estate Broker, DRE #01846114, dba WestCoast Real Estate. Educational information only; not legal, tax, or financial advice. Timelines and results vary with the property and market. Contact: (714) 452-8165.