How long does escrow take in California?

There is no standard escrow timeline. The length of escrow is largely determined by agreement between the parties, with the target closing date specified in the purchase contract and escrow instructions.

Who chooses the escrow company?

Both buyer and seller need to agree on who should be the escrow holder. That choice must be reflected in the purchase agreement. And since escrow needs to remain neutral, the escrow holder doesn’t represent or advocate for either side.

Who pays escrow fees in California?

Escrow fees are negotiable and can depend on the purchase agreement and local practice. Buyers and sellers should review the contract and closing estimates so they know which costs they’re responsible for.

Is escrow the same as title insurance?

No. Escrow handles funds, documents, and closing instructions, while title insurance protects against certain covered defects or claims affecting ownership. In some California transactions, the same company may provide both services, which helps explain why there’s sometimes confusion around these two concepts.

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What is escrow in California real estate? A guide for buyers and sellers

You’ve just gone under contract, and you’re about to hear the word “escrow” a lot. This is the process that helps move the home sale from agreement to closing. In California, the seller generally opens escrow, although the bu...