10 Steps to a Smooth Escrow Closing
A Seamless Closing Starts With Preparation
In Southern California’s fast-moving real estate market, a smooth escrow closing doesn’t happen by chance — it’s the product of preparation, precision, and proactive communication. Every step, from opening escrow to final recording, requires attention to detail and the right team guiding the process. At Ravello Escrow, we treat each file with the care it deserves, combining concierge-level service with compliance expertise to make your closing efficient and secure.
Below, we break down the 10 essential milestones that ensure your escrow experience stays on track from start to finish.
1. Opening Escrow
Once a purchase agreement is signed, escrow is officially opened. The buyer’s earnest-money deposit is delivered to the escrow company, and the escrow officer creates a file to track all documents, contingencies, and deadlines. This is where clear instructions and organized communication begin.
2. Reviewing the Purchase Agreement
The escrow team reviews the agreement to confirm that all terms — including purchase price, contingencies, and timelines — are clearly understood by every party. This early review prevents miscommunication and ensures the escrow instructions align with the signed contract.
3. Title and Property Research
Next, the title company provides a preliminary title report, outlining any liens, encumbrances, or ownership issues. The escrow officer collaborates closely with title to verify that the property is clear to transfer and to resolve any exceptions well before closing.
4. Deposit and Funding Verification
Escrow holds all funds in a secure trust account, protecting both buyer and seller. The escrow officer confirms deposit receipt, verifies source of funds, and prepares disbursement instructions for closing. Accuracy at this stage prevents delays and ensures full compliance with California’s Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) regulations.
5. Managing Contingencies
Inspection periods, appraisal deadlines, and loan approvals must all be tracked. Escrow monitors each milestone and documents contingency removals to keep the transaction timeline moving forward. This is where proactive communication between agents, lenders, and escrow becomes crucial.
6. Preparing Loan and Closing Documents
Once the lender issues final loan approval, escrow coordinates the signing package. This includes the buyer’s loan documents, seller’s grant deed, closing statements, and tax forms. Ravello Escrow ensures every document is reviewed for accuracy before signatures are scheduled.
7. Signing and Notarization
Buyers and sellers sign their final documents, typically in person or through remote online notarization (RON). Proper identification, accurate notarization, and date verification are critical at this stage — even a minor error can delay recording.
8. Final Review and Lender Funding
After documents are signed, escrow conducts a comprehensive audit of the file. Once all conditions are satisfied, the lender wires loan funds directly to escrow. Our team confirms receipt, balances the file, and schedules the transaction for recording with the county.
9. Recording and Disbursement
The escrow company coordinates with the title office to record the new deed and any loan documents with the county recorder. Once recording numbers are issued, escrow disburses funds per instructions — paying off existing liens, commissions, and seller proceeds.
10. Closing Confirmation and Delivery of Keys
When recording is confirmed, escrow officially closes. Buyers receive their keys, sellers receive their funds, and agents receive copies of the final settlement statement. Ravello Escrow provides each client with digital closing documents for easy future reference.
Your Partner in Precision and Peace of Mind
A successful closing depends on more than paperwork — it’s about trust, transparency, and teamwork. At Ravello Escrow, our licensed professionals guide clients through every phase with clear communication and concierge-level care. From the first deposit to final recording, we ensure every detail aligns perfectly so that your Southern California real estate transaction ends with confidence — and peace of mind.
