Escrow officers are often the unseen and unsung heroes in a real estate transaction. I am in the midst of two closings this week, both of which hiccuped at the final hours. One was held up by a legal document needed to close out the estate of a deceased spouse, and the other is a two week close where communication on the lenders part has been sporadic and unsatisfactory.
A good escrow officer bird dogs the problems and makes them go away, sometime without every sharing the pain and agony of what one hopes is a simple process, and often isn’t.
When making an offer on a home, the buyer decides on the title company that will be used to open escrow and handle all the title aspects of the transaction, as well (usually) handling the signing of the loan documents. Unless the buyer is an experienced investor or has a friend in the business, they are usually relying on their agent to make a recommendation. Buyers should ask their real estate agents what title companies they work with and why before selecting the title company.
Today, as we wait for some last minute paperwork for a closing, it’s reassuring for all parties involved (sellers, buyers, and agents) to know that the escrow officer is on top of it all. One who’s seasoned, diligent, and focused on providing top notch customer service. After all, isn’t that what it’s all about.
Updated 12/20/07: Rita Salone at Transnation Title is the escrow officer that inspired me to write this post. She is just phenomenal at getting the kinks out of a real estate transaction, and I’ve very grateful to work with a professional of her caliber. Her phone number is 602-996-0055.
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I am just thrilled you took the time to acknowledge Rita’s excellence! I know first hand how hard she works for her clients to ensure the smoothest possible closings!
Thank you, Dru!