The Process of Closing Escrow: Funding and Recording (2024)

Few days are more gratifying for homebuyers – and their agents – than closing day, when the last of the paperwork has passed muster and the keys to the house change hands. But while the sentiments are the same no matter where you live, the process itself may be different. Unlike the ‘settlement’ system in some states, for example, California defines ‘closing’ not as the date when borrowers sign the final loan documents, but as the date and time the deed is recorded.

A consummation date recognizes the date the borrower becomes legally obligated to the loan – and a Closing Disclosure statement is given to said borrower at least three days before they are scheduled to sign loan documents. While at this point, the borrowers no longer have the right to rescind the purchase agreement, they may take up to three additional days to review and approve the terms and costs of the loan – and/or to rescind the loan if any of the terms have changed.

In most cases, three days after delivery of the Closing Disclosure, the loan documents are, in fact, signed. Still, the closing process itself unfolds in three very separate steps:

  • Signing – The date when loan documents are signed and notarized
  • Funding – The date the lender releases funds to the title company
  • Recording – This is the date – the true ‘closing of escrow,’ when the deed and any other recordable documents are recorded with the County

Only after the escrow company receives confirmation from the title company that the documents have been recorded does the escrow officer verify all the charges and issue net proceeds to the seller and distribute funds to any appropriate parties.

In other words, the moment the Grant Deed is time-stamped by the County Clerk is the moment the property actually changes hands – and only then may the new owners receive the keys.

In California, as elsewhere, the pathway to that happy moment – including a thorough title search – can be complicated. We are committed to making it as straightforward and trouble-free as possible.

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This material is meant for general illustration and/or informational purposes only. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, no representation is made as to its accuracy. This material is not intended to be construed as legal, tax or investment advice. You are encouraged to consult your legal, tax or investment professional for specific advice.

About Bobbi Pronin

Bobbi Pronin is an award-winning writer based in Orange County, Calif. A former news editor with more than 30 years of experience in journalism and corporate communications, she has specialized in real estate topics for over a decade.

Bobbi is not an employee of Anywhere Integrated Services or affiliated with its title companies.

The Process of Closing Escrow: Funding and Recording (2024)

FAQs

The Process of Closing Escrow: Funding and Recording? ›

The buyer receives final approval from their lender or bank to close and all parties thoroughly review and sign any necessary documents, usually related to your mortgage and deed. Buyer completes a final walk-through of the house. Once the escrow agent receives everything necessary — congratulations!

What is the process of closing escrow? ›

The buyer receives final approval from their lender or bank to close and all parties thoroughly review and sign any necessary documents, usually related to your mortgage and deed. Buyer completes a final walk-through of the house. Once the escrow agent receives everything necessary — congratulations!

What are the elements of an escrow closing? ›

The escrow instructions would outline the purchase price of the home, the amount of the down payment, the date of closing, and any contingencies that must be met, such as obtaining financing. Once all conditions have been met, the funds will be disbursed to the seller, and you will receive the keys to your new home.

What is the escrow management process? ›

Key Takeaways

The first part of the escrow process is the opening of an account in which deposits and any other payments can be held. The buyer must wait for bank approval, secure financing, get inspections completed, purchase hazard insurance, do walk-throughs, and go through closing.

What does recording mean in escrow? ›

Recording – This is the date – the true 'closing of escrow,' when the deed and any other recordable documents are recorded with the County.

How long does it take to record after funding in California? ›

6) Grant Deed Recording:

In Los Angeles County, the grant deed gets recorded on the next business day after the Buyer's loan funds. The actual time of recording typically takes place between 9am and 5pm. At the moment the grant deed is recorded, the Buyer is officially the new owner of the home.

How long does it take escrow to record? ›

The buyer and seller agree to an escrow timeline during contract negotiations, and each sale varies, but normally escrow takes around 30 to 60 days to close. This article will provide you with a general guideline so you can get familiar with the whole process.

What's true about an escrow closing? ›

A “close of escrow” or “closing escrow” means all parties involved in the sale have satisfied the terms of the deal and the transaction can be completed. You may also hear the term “escrow account.” That's where the funds are held until they can be released at the close of escrow.

What 3 things does escrow include? ›

When you close on your mortgage, your escrow account is set up, and we calculate three things for it: property taxes, insurance premiums for your home, and the minimum balance you need to keep in your account.

What does the closing process include? ›

To close the deal on your home, you need a closing agent (also called a settlement or escrow agent). They'll coordinate document signing for all the parties, verify that both you and the seller have met the terms of the purchase agreement, and finally pay out all funds, transfer the title, and record the deed.

What is the timeline of the escrow process? ›

It usually takes between 30 to 60 days for an escrow to close. Sometimes the escrow timeline can be shorter or longer. You and the Sellers agree to an escrow timeline during the contract negotiation.

What is the escrow process simplified? ›

An escrow is a process wherein the Buyer and Seller deposit written instructions, documents, and funds with a neutral third party until certain conditions are fulfilled. In a real estate transaction, the Buyer does not pay the Seller directly for the property.

What is the escrow deposit process? ›

Deposit: With the opening of escrow, you'll receive wire instructions to put a 3% deposit into an escrow account (a 3rd party trust account). The deposit will stay there until the close of escrow, at which point it will apply toward your down payment and closing costs.

How does closing escrow work? ›

Once all the conditions of the sale have been satisfied, the escrow company will prepare the closing documents. These documents will include the final settlement statement, which outlines all the costs associated with the transaction, including the purchase price, closing costs, and any other fees.

How long after closing are funds disbursed? ›

A seller typically receives their money from the home sale 24 – 48 hours after closing. This timeline can be different depending on your state and whether the seller chooses to receive their money by cashier's check or wire transfer.

What are the steps after closing disclosure? ›

After the final closing disclosure, the next step is closing day. On this important day, you'll sign paperwork and receive the keys to your new home. Following the closing, there are a few steps that need to be completed like recording the deed, updating utilities and your address, and moving in.

Why does closing escrow take so long? ›

There are lots of parties involved in the mortgage lending process. A lender will want to take a close look at the buyer's financial situation to fully approve their loan. It will also want to get the home appraised, conduct a title search and more — all of which take time.

How many days after escrow closes? ›

Buyer Escrow Process

The Escrow Process for a Buyer has many steps and typically lasts 30-45 days. The escrow steps outlined below are a general overview on a customary experience for a home Buyer in the state of California.

How long does it take to get your money back from escrow? ›

(If you refinance with the same lender, your existing escrow account is typically reassigned to the new loan.) Upon closing an escrow account, federal regulations require your mortgage servicer to send you a check for the amount of its contents within 20 days.

What happens when you finish paying escrow? ›

Any funds remaining in the account will be returned to you. The mortgage servicer is obligated by law to send you your escrow refund, if any, within 20 days after it closes your account. You'll become responsible for paying your home insurance.

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