Sterling West Escrow compiled the following information so you can compare for yourself the different types of escrow services available. You will be amazed at the vastly different requirements for Independent Escrow Companies, such as Sterling West Escrow, when comparing them with escrow departments run by Real Estate Companies or Title Companies.

You have a choice. Remember only an independent escrow company licensed by the California Department of Corporations is a 100% neutral third party. Their only concern is to monitor the real estate transaction and safeguard trust accounts funds. Independent Escrow providers are specialists whose sole purpose is providing escrow. Escrow is our only business.

Sterling West Escrow is held to a much higher standard* than other escrow service providers. We are committed to service and to do the right thing for our customers.

Independent Escrow Company Requirements	Real Estate and Title Company Escrow Department Requirements
Independent Escrow Companies, such as Sterling West Escrow, are held to a much higher standard than other escrow service providers such as those run by Real Estate Companies or Title Companies. Our Escrow Officers are certified. All employees have background investigations including photos and fingerprinting by the Department of Treasure. Bonding Required Audits performed regularly by the Department of Corporations (without any prior notice) and separate independent audits required annually by Certified Public Accountants. Deposited funds are protected and insured by the E.A.F.C. Net Worth and Liquidity Requirements governed by State of California, Department of Corporations. Licensed and bonded by State of California Licensed and bonded by State of	No Escrow License Required No bonding required No Escrow Officer Certification No staff experience requirements No employee background checks. No regular audits of any kind required No net worth or liquidity requirements
*Higher Standards - The stringent requirements by Department of Corporations assure that every licensed escrow company has met the highest standards of the industry. Consumer protection regulations unique to licensed escrow companies include: A Certification Program for all escrow officers in the company's employ, including fingerprinting and background checks by Department of Justice. A requirement that an escrow officer with at least five years experience be on-site. Financial stability requirement, including at a minimum one CPA audit a year; and, frequent surprise examinations conducted by Department of Corporations. Prohibiting employment of convicted felons or anyone who has been disbarred from real estate industry. Membership with the Escrow Agents Fidelity Corporation which provides a $5 million fidelity bond. Company's sole business is doing escrow, which requires a higher level of state regulatory requirements and oversight.