If prior year taxes are not paid during the escrow process, they will remain a lien on the property and become the responsibility of the new owner. Failing to file certain forms of exemption with the County of San Diego can subject property owners to unexpected tax bills!The escrow officer, as the settlement agent, will ask the seller to complete a Certificate for Information Reporting for the. It's crucial to grasp all parts of the escrow process, from understanding purchase agreements to getting everything wrapped up at the final closing. In San Diego the seller pays the owner's title policy. Unless specifically agreed upon between Buyer and Seller, all taxes are prorated in escrow on a 360 day year or 180 day half year. This article explains how to understand the California home buying escrow process. Focusing on the California home buyer during the escrow process. Closing costs are negotiated prior to entering escrow. For federal income tax purposes, the seller is treated as paying the property taxes up to, but not including, the date of sale.