Exp Realty LLC

Escrow accounts: The simple benefits of having one

by Jo Ann Haven 01/09/2023

Escrow accounts are typically handled by a neutral third-party provider. These providers are often banks whose only interest in the transaction of residential real estate is to ensure materials, funds and other important documents are properly handled and distributed to the appropriate parties.

These institutions typically carry coverage, and if you’re already familiar with or bank with these institutions, you may also be covered under your FDIC insurance allowance.

Your chosen escrow company is usually paid monthly after setup and closing costs have been taken care of.

Monthly payment

Payments made to your escrow account benefit more than just your mortgage payments. In fact, variables such as some homeowners insurance payments, property taxes, monthly mortgage payments and other essential expenses, sometimes based on your locale, can be paid by your escrow company.

By paying into this account, homeowners can send a lump sum payment to their escrow company. That company will then send the homeowner’s monthly payments to the correct establishment, affording you, the homeowner, peace of mind in keeping your monthly payments current.

These payments are often uniform, though they may fluctuate yearly based on company and location.

Escrow account tips

Even though precautions and steps have been taken by escrow companies to ensure their clients’ safety, there are a few tips to consider for your financial health. A major tip is to ensure your payments are being made to the correct account. Every once in a while, you may want to check your statements to ensure all the correct institutions are being paid properly.

You may also want to check with your lender or other financial advisor or loan officer about starting your escrow account and compare the startup costs to ensure you’re choosing the correct institution for your current, and near-future, financial situation.

Escrow accounts are viable sources of managing your finances and payments when it comes to your home. They’re great resources for handling some stickier details and can help put your mind at ease when managing your monthly budgets.

About the Author
Author

Jo Ann Haven

Have you spent the past 35 years learning all you can about your new home in Brevard County? Do you know which neighborhoods meet your needs? Which school districts are the best? Where you get the most value for your investment and what local infrastructure changes are just around the bend?
Jo Ann does. She has loved this area since moving here over three decades ago. As a qualified realtor and parent, she knows the right questions to ask and can help you find your perfect home regardless of whether you’re a first-time or forever-home buyer. Condos, townhomes, and single family homes on the mainland or luxury homes on our barrier islands, Jo Ann can assist you in making the right choices for your current and long-term residence. And if you decide to rent while looking, she can help with that, too.
With the same dedication Jo Ann has put into training to run half marathons and other short races, she will explain the buying process, answer your questions (over and over if needed), and guide you through the hoops to home ownership. Call or email and let’s get started.