The Escrow Process Defined
Common Escrow Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Learn the most common mistakes made during the escrow process and how to avoid them. Ravello Escrow shares expert strategies to keep your Southern California transaction on track.
Why Details Matter More Than Ever
Real estate transactions are complex, involving dozens of moving parts — contracts, funds, disclosures, inspections, and multiple stakeholders. In California, where property values are among the highest in the nation, even a small error can cost thousands or delay a closing.
At Ravello Escrow, our mission is to help clients anticipate potential issues before they occur. Through more than a decade of hands-on experience, we’ve identified the most common escrow pitfalls — and developed systems to prevent them.
1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Paperwork
The first and most frequent issue in escrow is incomplete documentation. Missing initials, unsigned pages, or conflicting terms between contracts and escrow instructions can stall a file.
Our officers double-review all documents upon receipt, ensuring that contract terms, vesting details, and identification match precisely. This meticulous verification process eliminates unnecessary back-and-forth between parties and keeps the file compliant from day one.
2. Late or Missing Earnest-Money Deposits
In California, buyers typically have a set number of days to deposit earnest-money funds into escrow. Missing that deadline can void the agreement or delay the closing.
Ravello Escrow provides clear wiring instructions and verification protocols to ensure funds are received and logged correctly — and never at risk of wire fraud.
3. Poor Communication Between Parties
The most successful escrows are the ones where everyone stays informed. When buyers, sellers, lenders, and agents operate in silos, miscommunication leads to missed signatures, scheduling conflicts, or last-minute surprises.
Our concierge communication model guarantees timely updates. Every stakeholder knows where the file stands at all times, minimizing stress and uncertainty.
4. Overlooking Lender or Title Requirements
A lender might require additional documentation, or the title company may flag an unexpected lien or easement. Failing to resolve these early can cause last-minute chaos.
Our escrow officers proactively coordinate with all third parties to gather, review, and satisfy these conditions long before closing.
5. Ignoring Final Review and Sign-Offs
Many transactions encounter preventable delays simply because a small detail wasn’t verified — a missing payoff statement, a mismatched wire amount, or an unsigned disclosure. Ravello Escrow’s internal audit process checks every figure and signature twice before closing day.
The Importance of Professional Guidance
Clients often underestimate how much coordination escrow requires. With multiple timelines, compliance checks, and financial transfers happening simultaneously, even experienced buyers and sellers rely on expert support.
Our team includes seasoned escrow officers, transaction coordinators, and compliance professionals who bring over a decade of combined precision to every file.
Turning Complexity Into Confidence
The hallmark of Ravello Escrow is preparation. By managing every step with foresight and care, we help prevent the missteps that cause delays elsewhere.
Whether you’re closing a beachfront property in Malibu or a first home in Pasadena, our detail-oriented approach turns potential challenges into a seamless, stress-free experience.
