🗝️ Escrow Timeline Explained

Orange County Homebuyer Checklist

Buying a home in Southern California is exciting — but the escrow process can feel like a maze. Here’s your week-by-week guide so you know what happens, when, and why it matters.

🗓️ Day 0–3: Opening Escrow

What Happens: The purchase agreement is accepted and escrow is officially opened with your Earnest Money Deposit (usually 3% of the purchase price).
Why It Matters: This secures your intent to buy and locks in timelines.
Your To-Do: Wire your deposit to the escrow company (never via email without verbal confirmation).

🔍 Day 1–7: Inspections & Disclosures

What Happens: Seller provides mandatory disclosures (TDS, SPQ, NHD, HOA docs if applicable) and you schedule home, termite, and any specialty inspections (roof, sewer, pool).
Why It Matters: This is your chance to uncover any property issues before contingencies expire.
Your To-Do: Attend inspections; ask questions about condition, repairs, and potential credits.

💰 Day 5–10: Loan Application & Appraisal

What Happens: Your lender orders the appraisal to confirm the home’s value and underwriting begins to verify your financials.
Why It Matters: A clean appraisal and responsive documentation keep your loan on track.
Your To-Do: Submit updated pay stubs, statements, and documents within 24 hrs of lender requests.

⚖️ Day 10–17: Review Reports & Negotiate Repairs

What Happens: You receive inspection reports and negotiate any repairs or credits and Escrow orders the preliminary title report and homeowners insurance must be selected.
Why It Matters: This is where unexpected costs or repairs are handled.
Your To-Do: Decide if you’ll request repairs or credits and review the title report for liens or easements.

🧾 Day 17–21: Remove Contingencies

What Happens: Contingencies for inspection, appraisal, and loan are typically removed and you commit to closing unless something significant arises.
Why It Matters: After contingency removal, your deposit can be at risk if you cancel.
Your To-Do: Confirm with your agent and lender that all conditions are satisfied before signing removal.

🏦 Day 21–26: Final Loan Approval & Docs

What Happens: Loan is cleared to close (CTC) and Escrow prepares your Closing Disclosure (CD) and loan documents for signing.
Why It Matters: This triggers the final steps toward ownership.
Your To-Do: Review the CD for accuracy (interest rate, loan amount, closing costs).

🖋️ Day 26–29: Signing & Funding

What Happens: You sign loan and escrow documents at the escrow office or via mobile notary and the lender funds the loan once all conditions are verified.
Why It Matters: Timing here affects your move-in schedule.
Your To-Do: Bring valid ID and certified funds for your closing balance.

🏡 Day 30: Recording & Keys

What Happens: The deed is recorded with the Orange County Recorder’s Office and you get your keys! 🎉
Why It Matters: The home is officially yours.
Your To-Do: Schedule utilities, movers, and a walk-through with your agent.

📋 Pro-Tips for OC Buyers

Always confirm wire instructions by phone directly with escrow.
Typical escrow length in OC: 30 days (but can range 21–45).
HOA resale packages in areas like Yorba Linda and Anaheim Hills can take up to 10 days — order early.
Schedule your final walk-through 24–48 hours before closing.
Save every document — you’ll need them for taxes and home warranty claims.

✅ Go Deeper

Want a detailed checklist or timeline tracker for your escrow?📩 Reply “Escrow Guide” and I’ll send you a printable OC-specific checklist.

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