For many buyers and sellers, the signing appointment feels like the final step in a real estate transaction. In both Oregon and Washington, however, the transaction is not complete until it is recorded with the county and funds are disbursed.
The period between signing and recording is a critical phase where escrow, lenders, and county offices coordinate to finalize the transaction.
1. Escrow Reviews Signed Documents
After signing, escrow reviews all executed documents for
accuracy, completeness, and compliance with lender and recording requirements. This review typically includes:
- Verifying signatures and dates
- Confirming notarial acknowledgments
- Checking required initials and document consistency
- Ensuring alignment with lender instructions and county standards
If any information is missing or unclear, escrow may need to follow up before moving forward.
2. Lender Review and Funding Authorization (If Applicable)
In financed transactions, the lender must review the signed package and confirm that all loan conditions have been satisfied.
- Once approved, the lender issues funding authorization
- This authorization allows escrow to disburse funds after recording occurs
Timing varies depending on lender processes and any remaining conditions.
3. Recording with the County
Escrow prepares the final recording package and submits it to the appropriate county office. Depending on the location and transaction details, this may occur through:
- Electronic recording (eRecording), or
- Physical delivery
A transaction is not considered closed until the county confirms
official recording.
4. Disbursement of Funds
After recording confirmation, escrow proceeds with disbursement according to the settlement statement. This may include:
- Paying off existing liens or loans
- Delivering proceeds to the seller
- Paying agents, fees, and other transaction-related costs
How Long Does It Take After Signing?
In many straightforward transactions in
Oregon and Washington, the time between signing and recording is often about
one business day.
However, timing can vary based on several factors, including:
- Time of day documents are signed
- Lender review and funding authorization timing
- County recording office volume and processing schedules
- Transaction-specific requirements
Escrow companies do not guarantee specific timelines for closing or recording. The timeframes above reflect common patterns, not commitments.
Key Takeaway
Signing is an important milestone—but the transaction is only complete once
recording is confirmed and funds are disbursed. The steps in between ensure that all legal, financial, and procedural requirements are properly completed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the transaction complete after signing?
No. In both Oregon and Washington, a real estate transaction is not complete until it is
recorded with the county and funds are disbursed.
How long after signing does recording happen?
In many straightforward transactions, recording often occurs within
one business day, but timing can vary depending on lender approval, signing time, and county processing.
What can delay closing after signing?
Common factors include:
- Missing or incomplete documents
- Delays in lender funding authorization
- High volume at the county recording office
- Transaction-specific conditions that still need to be satisfied
When does the seller receive their proceeds?
Seller proceeds are typically disbursed
after recording is confirmed and all funds have been received and processed.
Can funds be disbursed before recording?
No. In standard practice, escrow disburses funds
only after recording confirmation to ensure the transaction is legally finalized.
What is “funding authorization”?
Funding authorization is the lender’s approval allowing escrow to disburse funds once recording has occurred. It is issued after the lender reviews the signed loan documents and confirms all conditions are met.