In Northern California, we don't utilize attorneys to close our real estate transactions, we use Title Companies. When a buyer is ready to submit an offer to purchase real estate, the selling agent (aka buyer's agent) asks the buyer if they have a preference of which Title Company they would like to use.
In most cases, the buyer has no preference and will ask their agent to make a good recommendation. When an agent in Northern California recommends a Title Company, what they are most likely doing is recommending an Escrow Officer.
The Escrow Officer, who is employed by a Title Company, is the go-to person for the selling agent once an offer has been accepted. For the next 15 to 75 days on average, the agent and Escrow Officer will be in constant communication in order to close a real estate transaction in a timely and non-stressful manner.
From time to time, an Escrow Officer may make a move from one Title Company to another, just like an agent may move from Brand X to Brand Y. Although there may be a slight difference in price or business model, I have found it best to follow the professional who is actually providing the service, not the brand.
And when it comes down to service, a good Escrow Officer is worth their weight in gold.
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