Whether you’re buying or selling a home, you’ll likely hear the term escrow frequently. Simply put, escrow is the procedure that guarantees all money, paperwork, and terms are handled fairly prior to the transfer of ownership. But what happens after escrow closes?
At NuKey Realty in Spokane, WA, our real estate services are designed to keep you informed and supported at every step of the process. From the first showing to the final signature, we make sure you understand what’s happening and what comes next. Here’s what to expect after escrow, whether you’re buying or selling.
What Escrow Means for Buyers
For buyers, closing escrow is an exciting milestone; you are officially the homeowner. However, immediately following the completion of the process, there are a few crucial actions to take:
Getting your keys
To ensure you can get into your new house right away, your escrow officer and real estate agent will arrange for the transfer of your keys, garage openers, and any security codes.
Verifying last-minute paperwork
Escrow will send a closing packet containing your loan documents, settlement statement, and deed. Keep these in a safe place for later use.
Setting up utilities and services
Make sure that power, water, internet, and other necessities are seamlessly transferred into your name by getting in touch with your local utility providers.
Securing the property
For peace of mind, many first-time home buyers decide to upgrade security systems or re-key locks.
Getting ready to move in
With escrow wrapped up, you can now move forward confidently with unpacking and making the house your home.
Your real estate agent is still a valuable resource after escrow. Whether you need referrals for local contractors, advice on property tax documents, or guidance on settling in, having access to professional home buying services ensures you start on the right foot.
What Escrow Means for Sellers
Once escrow closes, sellers can breathe a sigh of relief knowing the home officially belongs to the buyer. While you’ve likely already moved out before closing day, there are still a few details to confirm so the transition is smooth:
Delivering the property in agreed condition
Make sure the home is clean and free of personal belongings and that any agreed-upon repairs have been completed.
Handing over keys and codes
Your escrow officer and real estate agent will coordinate key exchange, garage openers, and any security codes with the buyer.
Final settlement of funds
After escrow disburses the sale proceeds, your real estate agent can walk you through closing statements, so you know exactly where the numbers landed.
Canceling utilities and insurance
Don’t forget to notify your utility providers and work with your insurance company to close out your homeowner’s policy.
With the right real estate expertise, sellers can walk away from escrow with peace of mind, knowing the financial and legal details have been handled properly.
Are you looking to purchase a home in Spokane? Search our home listings!
The Escrow Officer’s Role After Closing
The escrow officer is a neutral third party who ensures all the legal and financial conditions are satisfied. After escrow closes, they make sure funds are distributed correctly to sellers, lenders, and other parties. They also record the deed with the county, making the buyer’s ownership official.
While the escrow officer manages these details, your real estate team keeps you updated and advocates for your interests throughout the process. This combined support gives both buyers and sellers peace of mind.
The Real Estate Agent’s Role
Your real estate agent doesn’t step aside once escrow closes. Instead, they continue to be your advocate and guide. Agents often perform the following tasks:
- Confirm that all paperwork has been finalized
- Ensure buyers have the right information for move-in
- Check in with sellers to make sure they’ve received their proceeds
- Answer questions that come up after closing
With NuKey Realty’s local real estate professionals, you gain more than an advocate—you also benefit from trusted insight into the Spokane market, whether you’re planning your next purchase or considering another sale.
Need help selling your Spokane home? Contact NuKey Realty today!
Escrow is one of the most important parts of a real estate transaction, but it’s also just one step in the larger journey. What happens afterward depends on whether you’re the buyer or seller, but in either case, it’s reassuring to know you’re not navigating the process alone.
At NuKey Realty, we believe escrow should feel like a bridge, not a barrier. Whether you’re buying or selling a home, our real estate expertise makes the process clear, manageable, and far less stressful.
No comment yet, add your voice below!