In Episode 11 of Business Deals & Real Talk with The Choes (BDRT), Hollie and Johnathan sit down with Sophie Wong of Standard Escrow to break down everything business owners, buyers, and agents need to know about the California escrow process—for both business sales and real estate transactions.

Sophie brings years of hands-on experience and walks us through how escrow works in California, what documents are required, key timelines, and the biggest do’s and don’ts that can make or break a smooth closing.

She also explains how escrow acts as an impartial, neutral third party, ensuring compliance, accuracy, and accountability on both sides of the transaction.

Whether you’re selling a business with leased space, purchasing a property with an operating company, or handling both in one deal, this episode gives you a clear roadmap of what to expect.

🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How the California escrow process works for business + real estate deals
• Required documents and timelines every buyer and seller must follow
• Why escrow neutrality protects both parties
• Common issues that delay closings (and how to avoid them)
• How business brokers, attorneys, lenders, and escrow work together
• Tips for ensuring a clean, stress-free transaction in California

Disclaimer:
The information shared in this episode is for educational and general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal, financial, or professional advice. Every transaction is unique. Listeners should consult with their own qualified advisors—including attorneys, CPAs, escrow officers, and licensed professionals—before making decisions related to buying or selling a business or real estate in California.

Send us a text

Support the show

In Episode 10 of Business Deals & Real Talk with The Choes (BDRT), Hollie and Johnathan sit down with Yvonne Ward of Western Title & Escrow to unpack one of the most critical – and often misunderstood – parts of a business sale: title and escrow.

Yvonne shares what really happens behind the scenes once an offer is accepted, how escrow protects both buyers and sellers, common red flags that can delay closing, and practical tips to keep your transaction moving smoothly.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned seller, or a professional in the deal-making world, this episode gives you clear, real-world insight into the escrow process and why choosing the right team matters.

🎧 Tune in to learn:

• The role of title and escrow in a business transaction
• Common issues that arise during escrow (and how to avoid them)
• How business owners can better prepare for a clean, stress-free closing

Disclaimer:
The information shared in this episode is for educational and general informational purposes only. It should not be considered legal, financial, or professional advice. Every business sale is unique, and listeners should consult with their own qualified advisors—such as attorneys, CPAs, and licensed professionals—before making decisions related to buying or selling a business.

Send us a text

Support the show

Thinking about selling your business? Don’t let messy accounting or hidden liabilities tank your valuation. In this episode, the Choes bring on Valerie Wilson of Eagle Eye Accounting to help business owners get exit‑ready. Valerie walks sellers through:

• How to get your books “deal‑proof” — clean, organized, and transparent
• Key financial statements and metrics buyers will scrutinize
• Common red flags that reduce buyer confidence (and how to fix them)
• Strategies to improve profitability and cash flow before listing
• What to prepare ahead of due diligence to avoid surprises

If you’re serious about maximizing your sale price, reducing negotiation risk, and entering the process with full confidence, this episode will give you the financial foundation you need to close with strength.

Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be considered legal, financial, or tax advice. Listeners should consult with their own professional advisors before making decisions regarding the sale or purchase of a business.

Send us a text

Support the show