Opening Escrow: Once the buyer and seller have reached an agreement on the terms of the sale, including the purchase price and any contingencies, such as home inspections or financing approval, they open an escrow account. This is usually done through an escrow agent or a title company.

Deposit of Earnest Money: The buyer typically deposits earnest money into the escrow account to demonstrate their serious intent to purchase the property. Earnest money is a good faith deposit that shows the seller that the buyer is committed to the transaction. The amount of earnest money can vary but is typically a percentage of the purchase price.

Completion of Contingencies: During the escrow period, the buyer may have certain contingencies to fulfill, such as obtaining financing, conducting inspections, or reviewing the title report. The escrow agent ensures that these contingencies are met within the specified time frame outlined in the purchase agreement.

Transfer of Funds and Documents: Once all conditions of the sale have been satisfied, the escrow agent facilitates the transfer of funds from the buyer to the seller. This includes the buyer’s down payment, mortgage proceeds (if applicable), and any other closing costs. Additionally, the escrow agent ensures that all necessary documents, such as the deed and title insurance policies, are properly executed and recorded with the appropriate government agencies.

Closing: After all funds and documents have been transferred and verified, the escrow agent officially closes the escrow account. The property ownership is transferred from the seller to the buyer, and the sale is considered complete.

Escrow provides several benefits to both buyers and sellers in a real estate transaction. It helps protect the interests of all parties involved by ensuring that funds and documents are securely held until the transaction is finalized. Additionally, escrow can help streamline the closing process and reduce the risk of disputes or fraud.