What does the role of an escrow agent NOT include?

An escrow agent fulfills several essential roles in real estate transactions, primarily involving the impartial management of documents and funds between the buyer and seller. Among these responsibilities, the duties include managing the closing process, ensuring that payments are completed as agreed upon, and safeguarding essential documents and funds for both parties involved.

The role of an escrow agent does not include acting as an advocate for either party in the transaction. This is because an escrow agent is expected to maintain a neutral stance, ensuring that the transaction proceeds smoothly and fairly without taking sides. Advocacy implies a bias towards one party's interests over the other, which contradicts the escrow agent's duty to maintain impartiality. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the distinctive function of the escrow agent in maintaining fairness and neutrality in the closing process.