Patent ID: 8204807

Claim:
An apparatus including a processor and a memory coupled to the processor for an escrow transaction of real or personal property, the apparatus comprising: system components associated with a computer based automation system, said system components causing the processor to provide escrow processes via online communications, comprising: (1) receiving electronically signed documents related to the opening of an escrow, (2) sending digital instructions to at least one party involved in the transaction related to the opening of the escrow, (3) implementing identity authentication and electronic or digital signatures for documents requiring signature by at least one of the parties, and (4) providing for a variety of levels of security for access to documents, managing, by verifying said documents, digitally tracking and coordinating and permitting access to an ongoing status of the escrow transaction, and closing of said escrow transaction for real or personal property, including at least one of electronically transferring, registering, and recording of said documents, and receiving or sending online confirmation of a close of the escrow transaction and of delivery of final loan agreements, and releasing transaction funds.