Escrow fees are charged for the services of an escrow agent who acts as a neutral party in the transaction, holding and disbursing funds as needed. These fees are typically split between the buyer and seller, but the exact split can be a point of negotiation.
Washington state's escrow process is similar to other states where an escrow agent is used to complete the transaction. The escrow company will notify the seller's agent when the title has recorded, and the seller's agent will usually then deliver the keys to the buyer's agent or the buyer.
In an escrow agreement, one party—usually a depositor—deposits funds or an asset with the escrow agent until the time that the contract is fulfilled. Once the contractual conditions are met, the escrow agent will deliver the funds or other assets to the beneficiary.
In California, the buyer may choose the escrow company.
The California Escrow Process Step 1: Escrow Begins. Step 2: Initial Deposit. Step 3: Disclosures and Inspections. Step 4: Repair Negotiations and Appraisal. Step 5: The Mortgage Process. Step 6: Title Searches and Insurance. Step 7: Final Verification.