Escrow Etiquette - The Do's and Don'ts for Colorado Real Estate Professionals
Think of escrow as the Switzerland of real estate: neutral, secure, and governed by strict protocols. Whether you're a Colorado Realtor guiding first-time buyers or a lender coordinating complex commercial deals, following proper Colorado escrow services etiquette ensures smooth transactions and happy clients.
The Golden Rules for Real Estate Agents
DO: Communicate timeline expectations to clients from day one. Colorado real estate closing timelines typically average 30-45 days, but complications can extend this timeframe.
DON'T: Promise closing dates you can't control. Weather, title issues, and lender delays happen, especially in Colorado's mountain communities.
DO: Submit complete, accurate documents the first time. Missing signatures or incorrect dates create unnecessary delays in the process.
DON'T: Wait until the last minute to request extensions. Provide your escrow officer with at least 48 hours’ notice whenever possible.
Lender Protocol That Makes Everyone Happy
DO: Order appraisals and inspections simultaneously with the title work. Parallel processing saves time in competitive Colorado markets.
DON'T: Change loan programs mid-transaction without immediately notifying all parties. New loan types can require different title insurance coverage.
DO: Provide clear funding conditions early. Your mortgage lender requirements should be transparent from contract to closing.
Builder and Developer Best Practices
DO: Establish bulk closing schedules with your title company. Colorado home builders benefit from predictable closing calendars.
DON'T: Surprise the escrow with same-day requests for utility transfers or HOA documentation.
DO: Coordinate construction completion certificates well before scheduled closings.
Client Communication Commandments
DO: Explain wire fraud prevention protocols clearly. Colorado has seen an increase in real estate wire fraud attempts.
DON'T: Ever provide wiring instructions via email or phone. Always verify through secure channels.
DO: Schedule final walkthroughs 24-48 hours before closing, not the morning of.
The Ultimate Escrow Faux Pas to Avoid
Never assume that someone else handled critical deadlines. In real estate transactions, clear communication prevents costly mistakes. When in doubt, pick up the phone.
DON'T: Forget that Colorado has unique disclosure requirements for water rights, especially in mountain and rural areas.
DO: Remember that respect and professionalism in escrow create long-term business relationships.
At Canyon Title, we appreciate partners who understand that good escrow etiquette protects everyone's interests and creates the settlement services experience clients deserve.