What OC Sellers Sign at Escrow: A Document Guide

A walkthrough of every document sellers sign during a California escrow from grant deed to settlement statement.

By Shasta Greene · March 5, 2026 · 6 min read

Selling a home in Orange County involves signing numerous documents during escrow. Understanding what each form means protects your interests and streamlines closing. From the grant deed transferring ownership to the settlement statement reconciling finances, we'll walk you through every signature required so you can close with confidence.

The Grant Deed: Transferring Ownership

The grant deed is the cornerstone document—it legally transfers your property to the buyer. In California, this deed guarantees you own the property and have the right to sell it. You'll sign it in front of a notary public. The escrow company records it with Orange County's Clerk-Recorder after closing, making the transfer official.

• Names all parties (you, buyer, title company)
• Describes the property using legal description
• Must be notarized before recording
• Recorded immediately after funds clear

Preliminary Title Report & Affidavit

The preliminary title report shows what's on record about your property—liens, easements, or encumbrances. You may need to sign an affidavit clarifying ownership history or minor discrepancies. In Orange County's competitive market, having clear title speeds closing significantly.

• Identifies title issues needing resolution
• Affidavits explain gaps or inconsistencies
• Required before final title insurance
• Protects both you and the buyer

California Disclosures & Transfer Documents

California law mandates seller disclosures about property condition. You'll sign the Real Estate Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS), Natural Hazards Disclosure, and lead-based paint disclosures if applicable. These forms protect buyers legally and demonstrate transparency—essential in Orange County's informed market.

• Real Estate Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS)
• Natural Hazards Disclosure (earthquake, flood zones)
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (homes built pre-1978)
• Mold, HOA, and property-specific disclosures

Settlement Statement & Final Documents

The Closing Disclosure (or Settlement Statement) itemizes all financial transactions—your net proceeds, escrow fees, title insurance, transfer taxes, and prorations. You'll review and sign this before closing. Orange County transfer taxes and prorated HOA fees appear here, so verify accuracy carefully.

• Prorated property taxes and HOA dues
• Escrow company and title insurance fees
• Real estate commission (if applicable)
• Your net proceeds and closing date funds transfer

Closing isn't overwhelming when you know what to expect. Each document serves a purpose—protecting you, the buyer, and the property's title integrity. With OC's robust market and specific regulations, having an experienced agent by your side ensures nothing falls through the cracks. Ready to navigate your sale smoothly?

Shasta Greene is an Orange County, California real estate advisor and REALTOR®, DRE #02174153.