Can a seller back out after signing closing papers? Technically, a seller can back out any time before the escrow records the grant deed.We often complete the Seller's Settlement Statement well in advance of closing. Hillsborough Title is just what you need to help your closing run smoothly! Escrow is the time period that begins once your offer is accepted and lasts until the transaction officially closes. Escrow is a legal arrangement when you are purchasing a home in which a third party (title company) temporarily holds money until a purchase agreement is met. Once everything is in order, the escrow agent releases the funds to the seller, ensuring a safe and fair transaction for both parties. We later withdrew our offer within the newly extended due diligence period. No word on our earnest money from the realtor. The answer is no you cannot do it unless for whatever reason you've built some sort of contingency in there for finding a replacement property.