Who is allowed to "close" a loan in California?

In California, the process of closing a loan is typically performed by a title or closing attorney. These professionals are trained and responsible for ensuring that all legal documents are correctly prepared, executed, and filed, which is crucial for the legitimate transfer of property ownership and securing the loan. They also conduct the closing meeting, where all parties review and sign necessary documents, and disburse the funds as stipulated in the loan agreement.

The role of the title or closing attorney includes verifying that there are no outstanding liens on the property, ensuring that the title is clear, and handling the escrow of funds. This legal oversight helps protect all parties involved in the transaction.

While lenders play a crucial role in providing the loan and brokers may facilitate the transaction, they do not typically handle the closing process. An appraiser is responsible for determining the value of the property, which is separate from the closing process.