Who is this series for?

🔹 First-time buyers who want a clear roadmap.
🔹Move-up buyers ready for or on the path to their dream home.
🔹Investors looking to get started with a smart strategy and are considering options.
🔹 Anyone who hates surprises and wants to be fully prepared for their Home Buying journey!

David Mercier introduces the ultimate home-buying guide, walking you through every step of the process, from pre-approval to move-in day!

1️⃣ When and Where to Wire Your Funds

When wiring your down payment, you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Your escrow company will let you know exactly when and how to send your remaining down payment.

• When? Usually 1–2 days before closing, but always confirm with escrow.

   

• Where? The funds go directly to the escrow company handling the transaction—nowhere else.

   

2️⃣ Security First: Preventing Wire Fraud

Wire fraud is a major concern in real estate when wiring your down payment. Scammers often hack email accounts and send fake wiring instructions to trick buyers into transferring funds to fraudulent accounts.

Once funds are sent to the wrong place, they’re often impossible to recover.

How to Stay Safe:

✅ Wait for NEW Wiring Instructions from Escrow
Only trust wiring instructions sent by escrow after your loan documents are signed. Never use old instructions from a previous email thread.

✅ Always Verify by Phone
Call your escrow officer using the number listed on their official website or one you’ve already confirmed in person.
Don’t trust phone numbers from emails—they could be spoofed.

✅ Be Suspicious of Last-Minute Changes
If you receive unexpected new instructions, STOP and contact escrow immediately. This is a red flag.

✅ Use a Secure Network
Don’t use public Wi-Fi when reviewing wiring instructions or making the transfer.

✅ Confirm with Your Bank
Double-check that the recipient’s name exactly matches the escrow company before completing the wire.

3️⃣ How Much to Wire

Your escrow officer will give you an exact amount, which includes:

✔ Remaining Down Payment – The part of your home’s purchase price not covered by your loan
✔ Closing Costs – This includes escrow fees, title insurance, lender fees, and prepaid property taxes

💡 Pro Tip: Ask your escrow officer for a preliminary closing statement ahead of time so you can plan for the total amount.

4️⃣ What Happens After You Wire the Funds?

Once wiring your down payment is confirmed, here’s what happens next:

1️⃣ Your Bank Processes the Wire – This can take a few hours to a full business day, depending on timing and bank policies.
2️⃣ Escrow Confirms Receipt – Don’t assume. Call your escrow officer to make sure the funds were received.
3️⃣ Final Closing Prep Begins – Escrow will prepare final documents for closing once your payment is confirmed.

💡 Pro Tip: Always get written confirmation from escrow that your funds have been received.

5️⃣ What If Something Goes Wrong?

🚨 If you think you sent money to the wrong place when wiring your down payment:

• Call your bank immediately and request a wire recall

   

• Contact your escrow officer to check whether they received the funds

   

• File a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov

💡 Pro Tip: Act fast—some wires can be recovered, but timing is everything.

▶️ Conclusion

Wiring your down payment is one of the final steps before closing—and security is key. Always verify instructions directly with escrow, be cautious of any unexpected changes, and follow up to confirm that your funds arrive safely.

Ready to close on your dream home in Orange County or Long Beach?
I’m David Mercier—let’s get you there safely. Contact me today!

Wiring your Down Payment