Common Joe 'n Jane Real Estate Wiki

Real estate exam prep made easy! Dive into our wiki for key concepts and study materials tailored for success in your exams.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
<--Back to Wiki Home
Bite sized definition logo.

Define Escrow in Real Estate

Escrow: 

"Escrow" is a process in which a neutral third party holds onto something valuable, like money or documents, until specific conditions are met. Imagine you're making a deal with someone, and both of you want to make sure everything goes smoothly before exchanging the agreed-upon items. To ensure fairness, you use a trustworthy person to hold onto the items until everything is settled.

Example: 

For example, let's say you're buying a house for $250,000. You and the seller agree that the money will be held in escrow until the house passes inspection. You give the $250,000 to an escrow agent, who keeps the money safe. Once the house passes inspection, the escrow agent releases the money to the seller, and you become the owner of the house.

Illustration of Dumb Ox mascot.

"Wit & Whimsy with the Dumb Ox: Unlocking Knowledge with Rhyme:"

In the world of deals and trust,
Escrow is a must, oh just!
A third party, neutral and fair,
Holds onto the goods with great care.

When buying a home, sweet and grand,
Escrow helps the process withstand.
The money's held safe, till conditions are met,
Ensuring a smooth deal, without a fret.

Once everything's checked, inspected, and fine,
The escrow agent completes the design.
The money's released, the home's yours to keep,
Thanks to escrow, you can sleep a peaceful sleep.

Invest in Your Future.

Buy Access Now!