When homeowners in Glen Burnie sell a property, the escrow process is often the least understood — and most stressful — part of the transaction. The escrow process begins after an offer is accepted and continues until the sale officially closes, and it’s where most delays, renegotiations, and surprises tend to happen.
This guide explains what the escrow process looks like when selling a home, what sellers are typically responsible for, and where issues commonly arise. Understanding the escrow process ahead of time can help you plan more confidently and avoid unnecessary stress.
Selling a home doesn’t always follow a straight line, and the escrow process is often where timelines either stay on track — or fall apart.
What the escrow process means for sellers
The escrow process is designed to protect both the buyer and seller by using a neutral third party to manage documents and funds. Ownership does not officially transfer until escrow closes.
For sellers, the escrow process typically involves completing disclosures, responding to inspection requests, resolving title issues, and coordinating timelines with buyers, lenders, and escrow officers.
Understanding the escrow process early makes it easier to anticipate paperwork requests, delays, and decisions that may come up before closing.
Opening escrow and early documentation
Escrow opens once a purchase agreement is signed. The escrow company creates a file, outlines required steps, and begins collecting documents from all parties involved.
Sellers are often asked to complete disclosure forms and provide property information at this stage. Delays here can impact the entire escrow timeline.
Title review and ownership verification
A title search is conducted to confirm legal ownership and identify liens, judgments, or ownership concerns tied to the property. While many title issues are minor, resolving them can still slow escrow.
Inspections, repair requests, and negotiations
In traditional sales, buyers often schedule inspections during escrow. If issues are found, buyers may request repairs, credits, or price adjustments. This is one of the most common friction points in the escrow process.
Negotiations over repairs can extend timelines, especially if contractors or re-inspections are required.
Appraisals and financing delays
If the buyer is using a mortgage, an appraisal is required. If the appraised value comes in lower than the agreed price, escrow may pause while terms are renegotiated.
Loan approvals and underwriting are common sources of escrow delays that sellers often underestimate.
Clearing contingencies and closing escrow
Before escrow can close, all contingencies must be satisfied or waived. Once everything is approved, documents are signed, funds are transferred, and ownership officially changes hands.
When everything goes smoothly, escrow closes on schedule. When issues arise, closing can be delayed days or even weeks.
Why some homeowners look for alternatives to escrow
For sellers who value certainty, flexibility, or speed, the traditional escrow process can feel unpredictable. Delays caused by inspections, appraisals, and financing are common reasons homeowners explore other selling options.
If you’re comparing timelines, you may also want to review how the home selling process differs depending on the type of sale.
How a direct sale can simplify the process
When selling directly to As Is Equity, many traditional escrow steps are reduced or eliminated. There are typically no buyer inspections, lender appraisals, or extended contingencies.
This allows sellers to move forward with a clearer timeline and fewer unknowns.
You can learn more about selling your house directly if you’re exploring alternatives to a traditional sale.
Bottom line for sellers in Glen Burnie
The escrow process plays an important role in most real estate transactions, but it isn’t always predictable. Understanding each phase helps sellers plan ahead and reduce surprises.
As Is Equity is a locally established home buyer serving Maryland homeowners and is recognized by trusted organizations such as the Better Business Bureau and the Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce.
If you’re selling a home in Glen Burnie and want clarity on your options, As Is Equity is happy to talk through what makes the most sense for your situation. You can reach us at (443) 363-0906.