Recorder’s Office Timeline, Delays & Holidays
Why Timing Varies, and Completion Is Not Instant
Recording is a critical step in completing a real estate transaction. It is the process by which ownership changes are officially entered into the public record. Escrow relies on recordings to confirm completion.
Recorder’s offices operate on fixed schedules and procedures. They process documents in batches, observe holidays, and adhere to statutory requirements. These factors affect timing regardless of individual urgency.
Escrow cannot bypass the recorder’s office or confirm completion until the recording is verified. As a result, transactions that feel nearly finished may still be pending confirmation.
Understanding the recorder’s role helps explain why timelines vary and why completion cannot be assumed based on preparation alone. Recording is an external dependency that shapes escrow timing.
Because recording is a prerequisite to completion, it directly affects how escrow defines closing and disbursement.