A quick, straight answer to a question buyers and sellers ask me often.
How escrow and closing fit together
Think of escrow as the referee. Once your offer is accepted, a neutral escrow holder takes custody of the earnest money, instructions, and paperwork, and makes sure neither party has to trust the other directly. During escrow, inspections happen, the loan is finalized, title is examined, and contingencies are removed. When every condition is satisfied, you reach closing: the buyer's funds and loan proceeds are disbursed, the deed records with the county, and the keys change hands.
See our glossary entry on escrow for a quick definition, or the full buyer guide for the offer-to-keys walk-through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is escrow the same as closing?
No. Escrow is the ongoing neutral process that holds funds and documents and manages the steps between an accepted offer and the sale. Closing is the final event within or at the end of that process when ownership officially transfers.
How long does escrow take in California?
It varies by transaction, but many California purchases run roughly 30 to 45 days, depending on financing, contingencies, and how quickly each party completes their tasks. Cash deals can be shorter.
What happens at closing?
At closing, final documents are signed, the buyer's funds and loan proceeds are disbursed, the deed records with the county, and ownership transfers to the buyer — who then receives the keys.
