In a real estate transaction, an escrow agent is a neutral third-party entity who holds onto funds and assets related to the transaction until both parties have satisfied their contractual obligations and the sale can be closed on. An escrow agent may also be referred to as an escrow officer.
The bottom line: an escrow agent is not technically the same as a closing agent – but they can be the same person/company!
Escrow agents are often associated with real estate transactions, but they can be used in any situation where funds will pass from one party to another.
Who does an escrow agent work for? Escrow agents may work for a title insurance company or real estate attorney, as an affiliate of a lender or as an independent escrow company. However, they don't work for the buyer or seller and must remain neutral in any real estate transaction.
A broker acts as a representative for a buyer or seller, while an escrow agent is a neutral party. While a broker may facilitate a contract, the escrow agent is responsible for ensuring all the terms are met to close.
But who is responsible for hiring an escrow agent? The responsibility can lie with any party involved in the transaction. The buyer, seller or either real estate agent may choose an escrow agent during a real estate sale, but the escrow service provider that is selected must be agreed upon by all parties.