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Closing the Sale
Escrow
To finalize the sale of the home a neutral, third party (the escrow holder, i.e. escrow agent) is engaged to assure the transaction will close properly and on time. The escrow holder insures that all terms and conditions of the seller's and buyer's agreement are met prior to the sale being finalized. This includes receiving funds and documents, completing required forms, and obtaining the release documents for any loans or liens that have been paid off with the transaction. These activities assure that you clear title to your property before the purchase price is fully paid.
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The documentation the escrow holder may be collecting includes:
- Loan documents
- Tax statements
- Fire and other insurance policies
- Title insurance policies
- Terms of sale and any seller-assisted financing
- Requests for payment for various services to be paid out of escrow funds
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The closing can take place upon completion of all instructions of the escrow. All outstanding payments and fees are collected and paid at this time (covering expenses such as title insurance, inspections, and real estate commissions). Title to the property is then transferred to the buyer and appropriate title insurance is issued as outlined in the escrow instructions.
At the close of escrow, payment of funds shall be made in an acceptable form to the escrow.
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The Escrow Holder Will: |
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The Escrow Holder Won't: |
- Follow & prepare escrow instructions
- Complete title search
- Comply with the lender's requirements as specified in the escrow agreement
- Receive funds from the buyer
- Prorate insurance, tax, interest, and other payments according to instructions
- Record deeds and other documents as instructed
- Request title insurance policy
- Close escrow when all instructions of seller and buyer have been met
- Disburse funds and finalize instructions
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- Give advice - the escrow holder must maintain neutral third-party status
- Offer opinions about tax implications
- The escrow holder represents the lender.
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Mortgage Escrow Account
A Mortgage Escrow Account is established to pay on-going expenses while there is a loan on the house. These expenses include property taxes, home insurance, mortgage insurance, and other escrow items. Generally, the Escrow Account is partially funded at closing and the home buyer makes on-going contributions through their monthly mortgage payment. |
