I’m in Escrow! Now What?

What Happens Next (And How Not to Lose Your Mind)

So you made an offer, it was accepted, and now you’re “in escrow.” But what the hell does that actually mean?

Short version: You're in the middle of a legal process where your money is held in a neutral account while everyone hustles to meet deadlines, avoid disasters, and get you the keys.

Here’s what’s coming your way, so you don’t get blindsided or burned.

Deposit That Earnest Money

Once escrow opens, you’ll need to wire your earnest money deposit (EMD) usually 1–3% of the purchase price. It’s your “I’m serious” money.

Watch out for wire fraud. Double-check all instructions with your escrow officer before sending funds.

Schedule Your Inspections (Fast)

Most contracts give you 5–10 days to complete inspections, home, roof, pest, sewer, etc. This is your chance to find out what’s really going on with the house.

Pro tip: Hire your own inspector; not just the one your agent recommends. Once you have your report, upload it to a software company that can give you the breakdown on all the cost; this will work as a neogiation tool. There is even an option to have the repairs done prior to closing.

Finalize Your Loan

If you haven’t already, your lender will now need all your documents: tax returns, pay stubs, W-2s, bank statements, soul, blood type... okay, not quite, but it will feel like it.

Your job: Respond fast. Any delay on your end can delay the closing or kill the deal.

Appraisal Happens

Your lender orders an appraisal to make sure the home is worth what you’re paying. If the value comes in low, you’ll need to renegotiate or cover the gap out of pocket.

Disclosures + Repairs = Negotiation Time

The seller will provide mandatory disclosures (spoiler: they’re usually vague), and your inspections may uncover issues.

Pro Tip: Use technology that will allow you to upload that inspection report, this will allow you to know and understand what you are buying.

You can now request repairs, credits, or price reductions. This part gets political, so hold firm and ask questions.

Hurry Up and Wait (Welcome to Escrow)

Some days will feel like a whirlwind. Others? Crickets. Behind the scenes, your lender, escrow officer, title company, and agent are moving pieces into place.

If you feel in the dark speak up. Don’t assume everything’s “fine.”

Signing Day

You’ll get final documents to sign either with a notary or at the escrow office. Triple-check everything. Don’t be afraid to ask, “What does this mean?”

Funding + Closing + Keys!

Once everything is signed and your loan funds, the deal records with the county. Only then do you get your keys.

Hot tip: Don’t plan movers for the same day as closing. Delays happen.

Escrow is a rollercoaster; but if you stay alert, ask questions, and hold your team accountable, you’ll ride it like a pro.

This is where buyers either get empowered or get steamrolled.

Be Smart AF. You got this.