Which of the following best describes the role of the escrow agent?

The role of the escrow agent is primarily to facilitate the sale between the buyer and the seller. An escrow agent acts as a neutral third party who holds and disburses funds and documents related to the transaction according to the terms agreed upon by both parties. This includes receiving the buyer's earnest money deposit, collecting the necessary documents needed to complete the transaction, and ensuring that all contractual obligations are met before the sale is finalized. The escrow agent helps to ensure a smooth and secure transaction by safeguarding the interests of both the buyer and the seller throughout the process.

The other options describe tasks that fall outside the primary responsibilities of an escrow agent. Assessing property value is typically done by appraisers or real estate professionals, not the escrow agent. Commissioning repairs on the property is the responsibility of the property owner or the buyer, depending on the agreement between them. Negotiating financing terms is a role reserved for lenders or real estate agents as they navigate the conditions of a mortgage or loan, rather than the escrow agent who maintains neutrality in the transaction.