What does an escrow holder actually do?

We're the neutral party that holds the money and the documents while a deal closes. We open the file, hold the buyer's deposit in a protected account, order and review title, coordinate with the lender and agents, prepare the documents each side signs, calculate the final figures, and record the transfer once every condition is met. We don't take sides. We follow the written instructions both parties agreed to and treat each side the same way.

Who chooses the escrow company?

Either side can. The buyer, seller, or agent can name Autumn Skye in the purchase agreement or by mutual agreement. In some areas one side customarily picks, but it's always open to discussion. You're allowed to ask for an independent, licensed escrow holder you trust.

When and how do I send my funds?

Only after we've confirmed instructions with you directly, by phone, at a number you already have. We'll tell you the amount and the deadline. Before you send anything, call our office and confirm the account details verbally. We never send or change wiring instructions by email, so treat any emailed change as a red flag and call us first.

What are escrow fees, and who pays them?

Escrow fees cover the work of holding funds, handling documents, and closing the file. The amount depends on the price and type of transaction. Who pays is set by local custom or by your agreement, and it's often split between buyer and seller. We give you a clear estimate up front so there are no surprises at closing.

How long does a typical escrow take?

A standard purchase with financing usually takes about 30 to 45 days from opening to close. A cash deal can move faster because there's no loan to approve. Refinances and more complex files can run longer. The biggest factors are the loan, the title, and how quickly each party returns what we ask for.

What is a contingency?

A contingency is a condition written into the contract that has to be satisfied before the deal moves forward. Common ones cover the inspection, the appraisal, and loan approval. While a contingency is in place, the buyer generally has a defined window to review and decide. We track these conditions and help make sure nothing gets missed before they're cleared.

Is my deposit safe while it's in escrow?

Yes. Funds are held in a protected account and released only according to the written instructions both parties agreed to. As a California-licensed escrow holder, we follow strict rules on how client money is handled and accounted for, and we're examined by the state regulator that licenses us.

What happens if the deal falls through?

If a transaction cancels, we don't simply hand the deposit to one side. Funds are released according to the signed instructions and any cancellation both parties sign. If the buyer and seller disagree about who gets the deposit, we hold the money until they reach an agreement or a court directs us. We stay neutral the whole way through.

Do you give legal or tax advice?

No. We're a neutral party. Our job is to carry out the agreement and explain how the process works, not to advise either side. For questions about your legal rights or the tax consequences of a sale, talk to an attorney or a tax professional.

Do you serve Spanish-speaking clients?

Yes. Five of our officers work with Spanish-speaking buyers and sellers and can walk you through the process in Spanish. Just let us know and we'll make sure you're working with someone who can answer your questions in the language you're comfortable with.

What does "recording" mean?

Recording is when the deed is filed with the county to make the transfer of ownership official and part of the public record. It usually happens at the end of escrow, once all conditions are met and the loan has funded. The day your deed records is the day the property officially changes hands. We handle the recording for you.

What will I need to sign?

It depends on whether you're buying, selling, or refinancing. Buyers typically sign escrow instructions, loan documents, and various disclosures. Sellers sign the deed and escrow instructions along with their own disclosures. We'll tell you in advance what's coming, walk you through each document, and arrange a notary where signatures need to be notarized.

Reference

Frequently asked questions

The questions buyers and sellers ask us most often, answered straight. If yours isn't here, call your escrow officer and we'll walk you through it.

Escrow involves a lot of moving parts, and most of the questions we get come up on nearly every file. Below are the ones we hear most often. These are general answers about how escrow works in California. For anything specific to your file, your escrow officer is the best person to ask, and for legal or tax questions you'll want an attorney or a tax professional.

Common questions

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