Overview of the Owner Workflow
The relocation escrow process is a regulated sequence that demonstrates financial capacity while protecting tenant rights. Each step must be completed in order and documented before the next begins.
Skipping a phase or submitting incorrect documents will restart the timeline and can extend the termination date by several weeks. The following guide outlines the exact actions an owner must take from initial calculation to final disbursement.
Pre-Deposit Preparation
Before any funds move, the owner must obtain the written relocation determination from the appropriate housing department and review the exact dollar amount, tenant names, and unit designation. If any data appears incorrect, a correction request must be filed and approved. Once the determination is final, the owner selects a licensed escrow provider that appears on the city’s approved vendor list to ensure the filing is accepted on first submission.
Sequential Escrow Procedure
Step one is to transmit the determination letter, the signed notice of termination, and a completed escrow instruction form to the licensed agent. Step two is to deliver the full relocation amount by FedWire or cashier’s check before 2 pm Pacific on the same day the notice is served. Step three is to forward the Federal wire reference or cashier’s check image to the escrow officer for immediate matching. Step four is to receive the stamped escrow receipt from the agent and file it with the housing department before the close of business. Step five is to obtain the city’s written acknowledgment, which officially stops the compliance clock and locks the termination timeline.
Bullet Point Summary of Key Actions
- Obtain final relocation determination from city agency
- Select approved escrow provider and request instruction packet
- Wire full deposit amount before 2 pm Pacific on notice date
- Forward wire reference to escrow officer within 30 minutes
- File stamped receipt with housing department same day
- Retain city acknowledgment for audit trail and future reference
Post-Deposit Obligations
After confirmation, the owner must monitor the escrow dashboard for tenant move-out status. When keys are returned, the escrow agent disburses funds to the tenant and releases the final receipt. Any dispute over amount or timing must be resolved through the city’s administrative process before funds are released. Accurate record retention is essential, as auditors may request copies up to five years after the file is closed.
Start Your Escrow Sequence Today
Secured Trust Escrow provides pre-populated instruction packets, same-day wire confirmation, and direct electronic filing with all municipal agencies. Upload your determination letter now and receive executable documents within 30 minutes. To begin your step-by-step escrow sequence and lock same-day confirmation, contact our process team at 323-919-9894 or submit your documents through our secure portal.
