What Sellers Need to Know About Escrow & Home Inspections in Orange County

What Sellers Need to Know About Escrow & Home Inspections in Orange County

By Bryan Suarez, Local Real Estate Agent Serving Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Rancho Santa Margarita, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, and Surrounding Areas

If you’re thinking about selling your home in Orange County, understanding the escrow process and home inspections is crucial for a smooth transaction. Here’s what you need to know before putting up that “For Sale” sign.

What is Escrow?

Escrow is a neutral third party that manages the funds and paperwork during your transaction. In California, once you accept an offer, escrow officially “opens,” and they handle:

• Collecting the buyer’s deposit

• Coordinating documents between all parties

• Ensuring funds are properly disbursed upon closing

The average escrow period is 21-30 days, depending on contract terms. As a seller, it’s important to respond quickly to escrow paperwork and disclosures to avoid delays.

What to Expect During a Home Inspection

Almost every buyer will order a professional home inspection. This is their chance to assess the home’s condition before finalizing their purchase. Here’s what you should know:

✅ They look at everything. From the roof to the foundation, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, appliances, and general safety.

✅ Prepare your home. Make sure all utilities are on and areas like attics, garages, and crawlspaces are accessible.

✅ Don’t take it personally. Inspectors are paid to find issues. Even new homes have findings.

✅ Negotiations may follow. Buyers often ask for repairs or credits after the inspection. Deciding what to address versus what to decline is a strategic conversation with your agent.

Why This Matters for Sellers

Understanding escrow and inspections helps you:

• Avoid surprises that derail your sale

• Negotiate with confidence on repairs or credits

• Plan your move-out timeline effectively

When you’re ready to sell, I’ll guide you through each step so you can maximize your net proceeds while keeping the process stress-free.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home is more than signing paperwork and handing over keys. By understanding escrow and inspections ahead of time, you’ll be prepared to navigate offers, contingencies, and negotiations smoothly.

If you’re thinking of selling in Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo, or anywhere in South Orange County, let’s chat about your goals and create a plan that works for you.

Call, text or email me!

-Bryan

📞 (949) 522-7502
📧 [email protected] 

Bryan Suarez Real Estate | Top Realtor in Mission Viejo, Orange County