The Ultimate Guide to Escrow: Timelines, Mistakes, Red Flags & Pro Tips скачать в хорошем качестве

The Ultimate Guide to Escrow: Timelines, Mistakes, Red Flags & Pro Tips

Most buyers and sellers think escrow is just paperwork, but in Los Angeles, it’s the engine that determines whether a deal closes smoothly or falls apart. In this episode, Paul Salazar sits down with veteran Escrow Officer Kilita Smith to reveal what really happens after an offer is accepted from how deposits are handled to why disputes stall, and the behind-the-scenes steps that keep a transaction on track in one of the most complex real estate markets in the country. Kilita breaks down the escrow timeline, the biggest misconceptions clients have, and why escrow must remain a neutral third party even when tensions rise. She explains how wire fraud scams happen in LA, what truly causes deal delays, what makes the Los Angeles escrow process unique, and how trust, probate, and rent-controlled transactions add extra layers of complexity. If you’ve ever wondered where your deposit goes, why escrow can’t give legal advice, what happens during a dispute, or what really occurs on funding and recording day, this conversation offers rare clarity from inside the process. It’s an essential guide for LA buyers, sellers, and agents who want to avoid surprises and understand the mechanics behind a successful closing. Fill out our Buyer Form to get matched with on- and off-market homes: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FA... Book a call with Paul: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/... Connect Off the Channel: Kilita Smith | Escrow Expert & Real Estate Professional LinkedIn:   / kilita-smith-5612a569   Instagram: @kdsmith80 Connect Off the Channel: Paul Salazar - Compass 310.853.2643‬ paul@paulsalazargroup.com Website: https://www.paulsalazargroup.com Facebook:   / paulsalazarrealtor   Instagram:   / paulsalazargroup   Linkedin:   / paulsalazargroup   Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/paulsa... ******************************************************************* With over $750M in real estate sales and 19 years of experience, Paul Salazar is a top real estate professional known for results in L.A.’s most competitive areas. He has helped hundreds of clients buy, sell, and develop luxury homes in Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Venice, and Mar Vista. As Estates Director at Compass, Paul rebrands and relaunches listings, works with developers on luxury spec homes, and delivers exceptional service. He hosts the “On Frequency” podcast, leads a local men’s group, and is passionate about personal growth. A global traveler and former NCAA D1 athlete, Paul brings dedication, insight, and heart to every transaction. #luxuryrealestate #losangelesrealestate #losangelesrealtor CHAPTERS 00:00 – Intro: Escrow Process in California 00:10 – How Escrow Works (Timeline Overview) 04:55 – Offer Acceptance in California 10:00 – What Moves a Real Estate Deal Forward 15:05 – Amendments & Contract Changes in Escrow 19:40 – Earnest Money: Holding & Releasing Funds 25:10 – Complex Escrow Scenarios Explained 30:05 – Agent–Escrow Communication Tips 35:30 – Loan Process & Underwriting Delays 40:45 – Title Process: What Buyers Should Know 46:20 – Recording & Closing Day Differences 52:30 – Common Escrow Mistakes to Avoid 58:15 – Escrow Q&A: Legal & Procedural Topics 01:04:40 – Final Steps Before Closing 01:10:55 – Expert Advice for Buyers & Sellers 01:17:00 – Outro