An Escrow Officer is a neutral third party in real estate transactions who manages the escrow process. Their primary role is to hold and safeguard funds and documents until all conditions of the sale are met. This ensures that both the buyer and seller fulfill their obligations before the transaction is finalized. The Escrow Officer coordinates communication between the involved parties, including the buyer, seller, and their respective real estate agents. They prepare necessary paperwork, conduct title searches, and ensure that all legal requirements are satisfied, facilitating a smooth transfer of property ownership.