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Frequently Asked Questions.

General Escrow Information

As an independent escrow holder licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and
Innovation (DFPI), Cal Pacific Escrow Inc. acts as a neutral third party. Our role is to hold funds
and documents, ensure all contractual conditions are met, and protect the interests of all
parties according to the written instructions.

While every transaction is unique, a standard residential escrow in California typically takes
between 30 and 45 days. Factors such as lender requirements, inspections, and the
complexity of the title can influence this timeline.

At Cal Pacific Escrow Inc., we begin providing expert coordination and fiduciary oversight the
moment a file is opened. In the event of a cancellation:
● Service Fee: A standard fee is applied to compensate for the professional labor and
administrative costs incurred.
● Pass-Through Costs: Third-party expenses (wire fees, courier charges, etc.) are
non-refundable and deducted from the deposit.
● Mutual Consent: Per California law, we require Mutual Cancellation Instructions signed
by both Buyer and Seller before any funds can be disbursed.

Specialized Services

Yes. Unlike many standard escrow firms, we have the expertise to coordinate transactions
involving high-value portfolios that include fine art, vintage automobiles, and heirloom
jewelry. We ensure these assets are professionally tracked and funded as part of the total
transaction.

We provide dedicated support for Probate, Family Law (Divorce/Partition), and Civil
Litigation. Our team is experienced in working with court-appointed Receivers, Trustees, and
Elizors, ensuring strict adherence to court orders and providing audit-ready accounting.

Absolutely. We specialize in complex ownership structures involving LLCs, partnerships, trusts, and corporate entities. We work seamlessly with your legal counsel to ensure that all documentation aligns with the requirements of the transfer.

Security & Wire Fraud Prevention

Security is our top priority. We utilize secure, encrypted platforms for all communications. Important: Cal Pacific Escrow Inc. will never change wire instructions via email. Always verify any wire instructions with your escrow officer via a known, trusted phone number before sending funds.

Refined & Technical FAQs

Funds & Financials

A Statement of Information (SI) is a confidential document that allows the title company to distinguish you from other individuals with similar names. This helps “clear” the title by ensuring that liens or judgments belonging to someone else don’t attach to your transaction.
While we are not “Qualified Intermediaries” (QI), we work seamlessly with your chosen QI to coordinate the documentation and fund transfers required to satisfy IRS Section 1031 requirements. This ensures your capital gains deferral is protected throughout the closing process.

The "San Diego" Advantage

Cal Pacific Escrow is a truly independent escrow company, licensed by the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI). Unlike “broker-owned” or “controlled” escrow units, we have no financial interest in the real estate brokerage side of the deal. This independence provides a higher level of neutral consumer protection and oversight.

Complex & Legal Matters

Yes. Our senior officers are experienced in the high-intensity requirements of distressed property sales. We understand the specific demands of bank-directed payoffs, arm’s-length transaction affidavits, and the strict timelines required to satisfy secondary lien holders.
For transactions involving the sale of a business’s inventory or equipment (Bulk Sales), we manage the mandatory Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filings and the required public notices to protect the buyer from the seller’s existing creditors.

Remote & Digital Services

While we love welcoming clients to our Governor Drive office, we offer Mobile Notary services that can meet you at your home or place of business. For certain documents that do not require a wet signature, we utilize secure e-signature platforms to keep your transaction moving forward, regardless of your location.