What is a Multi-State Escrow Closing?

Whether you are looking to purchase commercial properties in many different states or closing a simple deal with a seller across state lines, multi-state escrow closings can quickly become frustrating. I find that even seasoned real estate investors face common challenges when closing commercial escrow in multiple states. Here are a few to watch out for:

1. Differences in State Laws and Customs

Previously, for example, when working on a transaction involving properties in Texas, Nevada, and Washington, it would have involved working with title companies and escrow officers in all three states. Services and practices can vary drastically from one state to the next. Additionally, the fees vary between states. Texas and Nevada, for example, range from several hundred dollars to several thousand.

2. Satisfying Underwriters

Title underwriting requirements can vary based on state-specific requirements and laws. I have been involved in many deals where the parties want to close based on the lender’s blanket requirements. However, the lender’s requirements may not satisfy title underwriting in all of the states involved in the deal. This often leads to lengthy renegotiations to satisfy the lender, attorneys, buyers, and sellers.

3. Communication and Consistency

With many more parties involved in multi-state escrow closings than in a standard deal, the list of conflicting priorities rapidly starts piling up, making clear communication, coordination, and consistency essential. Attorneys, underwriters, buyers, and sellers need to be on the same page and have the most up-to-date information to close on your desired timeline.

Get Expert Guidance With Navigating Multi-State Escrow Closings

As an experienced national escrow officer, my goal is to be your one-stop shop by communicating with all parties to facilitate smooth multi-state escrow closings.

I like to say that when it feels like your deal is hitting a wall, I will give you a window that looks out at all of your available options. When an underwriter simply says “no,” that is when I start exploring other options to turn it into a “yes.”

Closing should be the light at the end of the tunnel, but when it comes to closing commercial escrow in multiple states, that tunnel can be much longer with more twists and turns than anticipated.

Is your multi-state closing headache turning into a migraine? Shoot me an email at michele@seiboldgroup.com to see how I can help.