Call or Text Today!

Escrow: Now What?

Congratulations, you are on your way to owning your very own home! Follow these suggestions (and your Realtor’s advice) so that escrow and settlement with go as smooth as possible.

You will be asked for a down payment on the home you are purchasing. You can choose to put down as much or as little as you want (depending on your mortgage), but remember, the more you put down toward the total price of your home, the less time it will take you to pay off and the less your mortgage payments will be every month.

During this period of purchasing your home, you are going to need an escrow or settlement company to act as an independent third party so that you know when and who to give your money to get the deed to your new home. The escrow or settlement company will hold your deposit and coordinate much of the activity that goes on during the escrow period. This deposit check may also be held by an attorney or in the broker’s trust account. Make sure that there are sufficient funds in your account to cover this check.

The deposit check will be cashed. Assuming the sale goes through, this money will be applied to the purchase price of the home. If for any reason the sale is not consummated, you may be entitled to receive all of your deposit back, less standard cancellation fees. In certain instances, the seller may be able to retain this money as liquidated damages. Prior to executing a purchase contract, it would be wise to speak with your counsel regarding whether or not it is your best interest to have a liquidated damages clause as part of the contract.

1. The period that you are “in escrow” is often 30 days, but may be longer or shorter. During this time, each item specified in the contract must be completed satisfactorily. By the time you have opened escrow, you have come to an agreement with the seller on the closing date and the contingencies. Each contract is different, but most include the following: 1. Inspection contingency: this should be completed as soon as possible after the contract to purchase is signed as unsatisfactory results of the inspection may mean that you will want to cancel the contract.
 
2. Financing contingency: Once the contract is signed, you have a period of time to secure funding. If, for any reason, you are unable to secure funding during the period of time granted to you by the contract (and the seller will not provide a written extension of time), you must decide whether you want to remove the contingency and take your chances on getting a loan. You may choose to cancel the purchase contract.
 
3. A requirement that the seller must provide marketable title. With an attorney or title officer, review the title report. The title must be “clear” to ensure that you do not have legal issues regarding your ownership. Check into local and state ordinances regarding property transfer and make sure that you and/or the seller have complied with them.
 
4. Secure homeowner’s insurance. This will probably be required before you can close the sale. Due to such requirements as special fire and earthquake insurance, obtaining this insurance may require a lengthy period of time. It would be in your best interest to apply for insurance as soon as possible after the contract is signed.
 
5. Contact local utility companies to schedule to have service turned on when you close escrow.
 
6. Schedule the final walk-through inspection. At this time, you should make sure that the property is exactly as the contract says it should be. What you thought to be a “permanently attached” chandelier that would come with the property might have been removed by the seller and replaced with a different fixture entirely.
 

You’ve made it! Once the sale has closed, you’re the proud owner of a new home. Congratulations!

Search All Area Listings

ADVANCED SEARCH
MORTGAGE CALCULATOR

What's Your Home Worth? Find your home or condo's value in today's market, for free.

FIND OUT

Explore Tampa Bay Real Estate

In the heart of one of South Tampa's most elite waterfront enclave’s, this estate stands as a jewel of unparalleled luxury in Beach Park. Featuring one of the widest open water vistas with 164 ft of water frontage, and one of largest bayfront lots in Tampa at just over .55 acres, this property promises a unique island-like feel, despite being moments away from the city's prime locations. This estate welcomes you with a double gated and secured entry to this grand three-story residence overlooking Tampa Bay. Refined appointments and features include a circular drive and porte' cochere entry, soaring coffered ceilings and walls of windows, top-of-the-line stainless appliances and state-of-the-art media room. The main living and entertaining areas are located on the second level boasting a two-story rotunda, sweeping staircase, formal living room and family room, large gourmet kitchen, the dining room, bar and lounge, all with open water views. The main living spaces seamlessly flow outdoors (without steps to access) to generous terraces perfect for entertaining and capturing captivating sunsets, with an outdoor kitchen and entertaining bar, and covered entertaining areas. Just beyond, the centerpiece of the outdoor area is found in a one-of-a-kind three level cascading pool and spa unlike anything found in Tampa Bay. The third level is a haven of rest & private relaxation you have the master suite featuring an expansive terrace overlooking the bay, an opulent master bath with a roman shower, large spa tub, an executive closet with custom cabinetry and an enormous office with access to the terrace. On this level, you have four additional bedrooms, each with walk-in closets with custom shelving, a private bath, and a terrace overlooking the bay or property grounds. An additional elevator shaft exists to service the guest bedroom level. The ground floor boasts a sprawling gym, possible 6th bedroom, full bath, second laundry room, generous utility room, 4+-car garage storage, a dream wine cellar, billiard/game room and crowned with a show-stopping glass elevator to main level and master suite. Beyond the open bay frontage, a wide canal offers sanctuary for watercraft , and exceptional docking system with multiple boat/jet ski lifts, covered boat storage and entertaining/dining area. Whether it's a leisurely cruise, a paddle board excursion, or fishing at dawn, the Bay is your perfect playground. Offering convenience to Tampa’s popular International Plaza, Tampa International Airport, the Westshore Business District and to Tampa’s best private and public schools, you’re less than 5 miles to shopping, dining, beaches, sports and cultural venues. $14,950,000 Active

5224 W Neptune Way Tampa, Florida

5 Beds 8 Baths 10,123 SqFt 0.550 Acres

1005 Siwanoy is a rare opportunity to own a newer construction, move-in ready home located on the 17th fairway of Palma Ceia golf course. Designed by architect Meyer Weitzman and built by John Sample Properties who worked closely with the homeowner to design a truly custom and unique home that reflects the homeowners passion for contemporary design married with the warmth and character of high end Caribbean resorts. Enter the home into a custom designed foyer with art gallery wall into the expansive family room with soaring 25 foot ceilings. 10-foot folding Euroglass wall highlights the expansive view of the golf course to the Palma Ceia clubhouse. Highlighting the family room is a 23’ foot coral fireplace wall flanked by custom walnut bookcases. The downstairs master suite features a private office, enormous bathroom with his and her custom walnut vanities, separate his and her showers, closets, and free standing tub. The double island kitchen design with custom walnut cabinetry, massive walnut dropped soffit with recessed lighting and custom pendants, sleek Jenn-Air appliances, and walk-in pantry will delight the homeowner who loves to entertain! Relax in the expansive den featuring a pool table, fireplace, separate bar area with a walk in chilled wine closet with custom walnut shelving to display the discerning collectors favorite bottles. The entertaining continues outside with a large covered terrace with soaring fireplace wall, outdoor wall mounted TV, outdoor summer kitchen and custom designed pool and rimless spa. Upstairs features 4 bedrooms with custom designed en-suite bathrooms and large bonus room with double gaming zones. Built to the highest standards of construction with cast in place concrete, Eldorado Stone coral finished concrete accents, custom linear gutters, impact windows, Creston home automation, electric window coverings and so much more! (See attachment for complete list of home details). With its exquisite design and rare golf course location, it presents a fantastic opportunity for those seeking to live in the heart of one of Tampa’s most coveted locations. $12,500,000 Active

1005 S Siwanoy Street Tampa, Florida

5 Beds 7 Baths 6,593 SqFt 0.570 Acres

PreConstruction. Stunning Bayfront home on Davis Islands with unobstructed views from every level. Designed to the latest building codes with concrete block/piling construction, impact windows/doors, and elevated FEMA compliant living for optimum flood protection/insurance premiums. Enjoy an expansive rooftop terrace for amazing sunsets, views of Bayshore Boulevard and Downtown Tampa skylines which shimmer at night. Adalia Avenue is a premium on-island location that boasted the top home sales for 2022, and one of the few locations that provides walkability to downtown Davis Islands, Water Street Tampa, Amalie Arena and the Riverwalk. Imagine the perfect waterfront lifestyle from this extraordinary custom home designed to elevate living and entertaining to an art form in 7,066 SF under air and 12,446 total SF. Fully permitted and estimated completion in approx 14 months, this new construction by Boss and Mennie Luxury Homebuilders offers multiple exterior elevation choices ranging from modern to contemporary coastal. The outstanding bayfront location features expansive light-filled living spaces, elegant design appointments and top-of-the-line custom finishes throughout ready for final selection by buyer. Interior features include 12 ft retracting glass doors, sleek European-inspired kitchen, a wine wall and entertaining bar, 4-level glass elevator, home theatre, second floor lounge and numerous terraces. Living and entertaining at the water’s edge features pool, spa, outdoor kitchen and boat dock. Additional appointments include multiple flex spaces for gym/office, walled/fenced estate with automatic gate, and garage parking for 6-8 cars. Enjoy the very best of waterfront living in this coveted community with A-rated schools, convenience to numerous sports venues, recreation, shopping, dining and entertainment. Exterior Elevation style may be modified and final interior finishes are ready for selection by buyer. Note: Bayfront vacant lots are currently trading on and off market $10-20++ million. This is an excellent waterfront value if you missed your opportunity to be on the bay for this price with a new construction home. Video Tour and Floor Plans available at www.34AdaliaAve.com Lot may be purchased separately. $11,900,000 Active

34 Adalia Avenue Tampa, Florida

6 Beds 6 Baths 7,066 SqFt 0.210 Acres

Under contract-accepting backup offers. This incredible, newly constructed waterfront masterpiece on Davis Islands is ready for its new owners to move in. This magnificent property has 6 Bedrooms and 7.5 baths included in 7,416 sq ft interior space and has been designed to offer unrivaled luxury. Nestled on one of Davis Islands' most sought-after streets, this impressive home grants you the best of both worlds; awe-inspiring open bay views plus deep-water dockage for your yacht. Immerse yourself in modern elegance, where contemporary design meets top-of-the-line craftsmanship. Through the pivot-style glass entry door, prepare to be enchanted by the selections that have been woven into every corner of this home. Double-volume ceilings & wood floors create a living & dining experience made only more amazing by the water views & timeless sophistication. Adjacent to the dining area, you & your guests may indulge in the glass-enclosed wine room. The state-of-the-art kitchen is equipped with Wolf & Sub-Zero appliances plus a built-in Miele espresso machine, double islands with seating for many, a pet station with water filler, & a separate catering prep kitchen boasting an additional dishwasher, sink, & refrigerator with plenty of storage space. This first level of the home has been thoughtfully designed also to offer a stunning glass-enclosed home office, a versatile guest bedroom with an en-suite bath, which could easily serve as a playroom or workout room, a luxurious waterfront guest suite with a private en-suite bath, & the first of two laundry rooms conveniently located close to the pool and a full bath. Embrace the Florida lifestyle with this incredible outdoor living and dining area, complete with a full kitchen, an island with a waterfall edge, and gas fireplace. The designer saltwater pool & spa, elegant marble pavers, and private dock stand as a testament to the captivating allure of the waterfront. The breathtaking sunsets grace every corner of the backyard and most rooms inside. As you ascend to the second floor, convenience meets indulgence by using either the elegant staircase or the ample-sized elevator. The primary suite takes center stage, offering sweeping open bay views through expansive windows, with French doors that lead to a private terrace. This owner's suite is a true masterpiece and also features a morning bar with a fridge, a gorgeous and expansive modern bath featuring double sized shower enclosure, a double rain shower system, a stand-alone bathtub, double vanity with seating area, a large linen closet, and custom his and her closet systems designed to consider your every storage need. Completing the second floor are three additional guest bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathrooms, a second laundry room, & an expansive media room boasting a wet bar and private bath. This exceptional residence also features pre-wiring for electric blinds, a state-of-the-art sound system throughout, and an oversized three-car garage with the possibility to add car lifts. Discover the Davis Islands lifestyle, which offers recreational opportunities both on and off the water, including restaurants, bars, shops, a Tennis Center, a Marina, a Yacht Club, and an Airport for your private aviation needs. This unparalleled oasis is right in the heart of South Tampa. Call for your private tour. $11,200,000 Pending

104 Ladoga Avenue Tampa, Florida

6 Beds 8 Baths 7,416 SqFt 0.340 Acres

Under Construction. Welcome to an extraordinary opportunity for luxurious living in South Tampa! This truly unique Custom OPEN BAY WATERFRONT pool home in coveted Sunset Park, spanning over 6400 square feet, offers unrivaled views of Tampa Bay and downtown St. Pete setting a new standard for upscale living. Designed by the renowned Mary Beth Courier, who designed Oxford Exchange, this magnificent residence provides ample space for relaxation and privacy which features five spacious bedrooms, six bathrooms, large office, huge game/media room and 4 car garage. The well-designed floor plan includes an extraordinary master suite with 2 expansive master closets, oversized walk in shower, stand alone tub and an abundance of storage and organization options. Prepare to be wowed by the kitchen, featuring top-of-the-line Sub-Zero and Viking appliances that combines functionality with exquisite aesthetics, making it a dream for both aspiring and seasoned chefs. Entertainment options abound within this amazing home. A dedicated home theatre and a state-of-the-art golf simulator provide unparalleled enjoyment for both movie nights and golf enthusiasts. With high-end audio, visual technology, and intelligent lighting control throughout the house, every moment spent in this home will be immersed in luxury and sophistication. This property will offer an array of exceptional features. Imagine indulging in a resort-style swimming pool and hot tub, perfect for relaxation and entertaining guests. Additionally, a new dock with a boat lift will provide direct access to the water, ideal for boating and waterfront living. Located in a desirable area, this property offers convenient access to the vibrant downtown scene, where renowned restaurants, upscale shopping, and cultural attractions await. Furthermore, schools, parks, and major transportation routes are all within reach, ensuring a well-rounded and convenient lifestyle. Scheduled for completion in the middle of 2024. Currently, there is still an opportunity to customize options and features. Don't miss the chance to experience the pinnacle of luxury living in South Tampa. Call now for further details. $10,995,000 Active

5104 W Longfellow Avenue Tampa, Florida

5 Beds 6 Baths 6,405 SqFt 0.230 Acres

**BUILT UP ABOVE SEA LEVEL WITH POURED CONCRETE AND SOLID FOUNDATION, ZERO FLOODING OR STORM ISSUES** This stunning Culbreath Isles estate home was completed in 2022 and is equipped with cutting-edge modern design, advanced smart home technology, refined finishes, and energy-efficient features, all held to the highest standards. The property boasts unparalleled canal and Bay views and an exceptional outdoor living space complete with a custom pool and floating, waterfall-edge spa over a private grotto, outdoor kitchen, sun deck, dock with a lift, and quick open Bay access. Inside, the home offers 5865sqft (7027sqft under roof), 5 bedrooms, 5 full and 1 half baths, as well as a variety of spaces including an office, media/game room which features a custom wet bar, two laundry rooms, and an elevator. The chef's kitchen is a true masterpiece, with Calcutta quartz countertops, custom Wood-Mode cabinetry, gas Thermador appliances, and a large walk-in pantry. Other notable features include 140ft of water frontage, all-block construction with poured concrete, a beautiful floating staircase, a 3-car garage with space for 3 lifts, imported Italian porcelain tile, impact windows, and custom closets throughout. This property is situated in one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in South Tampa, and is within a top-rated school district, just minutes from the best local private schools, and offers easy access to Tampa International Airport, Westshore and International Malls, shopping, and incredible dining options. View the video tour at https://1612culbreathisles.com/idx (https://1612culbreathisles.com/idx) and floor plans are available upon request. $10,250,000 Active

1612 Culbreath Isles Drive Tampa, Florida

5 Beds 6 Baths 5,856 SqFt 0.360 Acres

Under Construction. Modern Beach Park Luxury Waterfront by Modesta Homes. This superior Bayfront location offers sweeping water views and quality construction, refined finishes and state-of-the-art design. Enjoy the best of waterfront living with a dramatic floating staircase, 5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, 8,077 sq. ft. of living area, new dock and elevator. Exceptional living spaces include an office, formal dining room, movie theater, gym, waterfront Flex Room, lounge, entertaining bar, 500 sq. ft. loft and climate-controlled wine cellar. Experience the best of entertaining in a sleek European design chef’s kitchen with a prep kitchen, waterfall center island, Wolf and Sub-Zero gas appliances, or escape outdoors to a custom waterfront pool with fire fountains, floating spa, outdoor kitchen with 36” gas grill, sink and refrigerator, along with dual sun decks, dock and dual lifts (16K and 6K). Additional features in the energy-efficient construction include Hardie exterior, new seawall, 10-car garage and EV charging, 360 degree custom fireplace, Smart Home Systems, Cloplay® modern aluminum and glass impact garage doors, Low-E insulated, ES impact windows/doors, RHEEM Tankless water heater, 2-row theater with 150” 4k Ultra HD screen, Pentair automated pool control, multiple waterfront terraces, dual laundry rooms and tropical landscape. Located in a top-rated school district and convenient to Westshore and International Mall, Tampa International Airport, shopping and dining. Floor Plans available. *Listed specifications may vary. Builder reserves the right to change specifications, designs, products, and/or brands based on approved architectural drawings. See virtual tour link for plans and specifications. $8,990,000 Pending

20 Sandpiper Road Tampa, Florida

5 Beds 6 Baths 8,077 SqFt 0.230 Acres

Please click the button to see the 3-D Matterport video tour. 4923 New Providence Avenue is a truly magnificent estate that only comes around once in a blue moon. The quality, design, and attention to detail are unparalleled and unlike anything else on the market. The home sits on an oversized lot in Culbreth Isles at 21,312 square feet with imported Italian turf stretching the length of the property. You immediately get the sense of the grandeur of this home as soon as you enter through the 10-foot tall double steel doors and are immediately greeted by soaring ceilings of 20 1/2 feet and a large wedding spiral staircase, inspired by the St. Regis Atlanta (see entrance photo). The living room, visible from the entrance, is also 20 1/2 feet high. Which is centered by a solid stone fireplace, carved and shipped in one piece from Turkey, that took a forklift driving through the front door while the home was being built to install. Other one-of-a-kind features of the home include exceptional soundproofing in every single exterior wall to make sure you are not bothered by the outside world while enjoying your home; a glass elevator with Carrera marble lined shaft that looks up to a Chihuly inspired blown-glass fixture; a one of a kind cinema room, a SONOS compatible system throughout the house, an industrial-sized generator that can power the entire Estate for up to 2 weeks, the highest rated hurricane proof windows throughout, and much more. All bathrooms upstairs have steam showers – nearly every toilet in the home is a TOTO toilet - the master bathroom comes with two. Although there are four bedrooms and six full bathrooms, the 13 1/2 foot ceiling cinema room has another bathroom which could easily be converted to another master or even a large ballroom/entertainment space. The fitness room can also easily be converted into another bedroom; giving buyers the option for a six-bedroom home. The kitchen is an oversized gourmet chef’s dream with two full ovens and 6 burners, all WOLF appliances that sit adjacent to a climate-controlled wine cellar and butler's pantry. The house is full of redundancies to make sure you never are short on space, such as having 3 full-size subzero refrigerators, 5 freezers and 2 refrigerator drawers in the kitchen and pantry alone. The fully custom kitchen is also outfitted with a massive 10-foot island for seating, a restaurant-grade solid 5x5 foot wood butcher's block, and banquet restaurant-style seating by windows that gazes out over the exotic trees and backyard water oasis. This home also has a full three-car airconditioned garage with height for car lifts and extra parking spaces for at least 12+ guests in the driveway. The elaborate and exclusive outdoor entertainment space is highlighted by a cascading infinity edge saltwater pool which is surrounded by a crushed coral deck that withstands the heat. Finally leading to the bay are two cement docks (never to be replicated in Culbreth Isles) that can easily house a 50-foot boat on the 30,000 pound-rated boat lifts, alongside a jet ski lift for two skis. From the home's concrete dock, one can see the open Bay. $8,795,000 Active

4923 New Providence Avenue Tampa, Florida

4 Beds 7 Baths 7,838 SqFt 0.500 Acres

Under contract-accepting backup offers. Rarely available! Hillsborough Bay waterfront property with an easy walk to all the restaurants, shops and amenities that make Davis Islands unique. This 4 bedroom, 4 bath, bayfront Mediterranean home (with pool) was custom built in 2000 on over a quarter acre with 100 feet of waterfront with a boat lift. It has breathtaking bay views from almost every room. This home features an open floor plan with 4,071 heated sq. ft. of luxury living. The open kitchen features Viking appliances, natural gas cooking, tons of storage and granite countertops. The first floor features both formal and informal dining areas, a gas fireplace and opens onto a covered terrace for outdoor living. The first floor also includes a guest retreat with a private bath, lots of natural light, and remarkable bay views. The second floor features the primary bedroom, en-suite bath, a loft office area, and two additional bedrooms with bath. The primary bedroom features incredible bay views, and you can enjoy fabulous sunsets from the rooftop balcony. The primary bath features a walk-in shower as well as a separate make-up area. The home has a three-car garage and a paver driveway. The waterfront in-ground pool is the perfect place to spend an afternoon after touring Hillsborough Bay and River on your boat. $7,990,000 Pending

88 Adalia Avenue Tampa, Florida

4 Beds 4 Baths 4,071 SqFt 0.330 Acres

Can We Help You

SELL YOUR HOME?

Let us take the stress out of selling your home.

SELL MY HOME

Can We Help You

FIND YOUR HOMES VALUE?

Find out the value of your property.

SEND ME AN ESTIMATE

Jacqueline Toledo

Your Friend & Realtor

Welcome to TheToledoTeam.com, your one-stop source for Greater Tampa Bay, real estate. We use our state-of-the-art property search, including an interactive map search, to find homes for sale in Greater Tampa Bay, FL. These listings are updated daily from the MLS.

Use our Communities and Neighborhoods Guild to learn about the local neighborhoods and what they have to offer.

Our community searches will keep you up to date with the latest properties in the areas you are interested in.

Register for a free account to receive email notifications whenever new homes for sale come on the market that matches your specific criteria and save your favorite properties for quick and easy access whenever you need them — it’s fast, easy, automatic, and FREE! You’ll be among the first to know about the newest homes for sale.

Client Testimonials

Absolutely the best real estate agent in the area. Jacqueline listened to everything we wanted in a house and found exactly what we were looking for. As first time home buyers, she really took the time to walk through each and every step of the process to make sure we understood what we were doing. We felt very comfortable with everything when we finally got to the table to sign for the house. Jacqueline was always willing to answer any questions we had and made sure we were give all the information we asked for. I would recommend Jacqueline and her team to anyone looking to buy a house in the future. Thank you for all of your hard work to help us find our first true home. We could not have done this with you.
Connie Di Piazza
Connie Di PiazzaNew Home Owner
Jacqueline Toledo was helping us find a home. She was extremely helpful and patient with us. She listened to our wants and showed us exactly what we were looking for. She is honest, polite and very professional. She drove over an hour to our house for the first meeting through the crazy Riverview traffic. She is dedicated to her clients and goes way past the extra mile to help. We recommend Jacqueline to any one in search of a house.​
James jimi Perez
James jimi PerezNew Home Owner
Our experience with Jacqueline Toledo was excellent. Jacqueline is a fantastic realtor and a great human being. We appreciated her experience, professionalism and knowledge of the Tampa Bay area. She is very friendly and she pays a lot of attention to details. We thought the whole process would be difficult since we were not locals, but she made it easy for us. ​
Cosmin Rosca
Cosmin RoscaNew Home Owner
Previous
Next

Explore Local Communities

© 2021 The Toledo Team, All rights reserved​ - Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

Created by MesserProductions.com