Ep. 15 - Trust Accounting Best Practices: Protecting client funds through accuracy, compliance, and control.

Ep. 23 - Real Estate Economic Forecast

In this episode of Debits and Credits, Michael C. Haas, CPA explores the current real estate economic forecast and the key trends shaping today's housing market. From interest rates and inflation to inventory levels, lending conditions, and market activity, Michael discusses the economic factors influencing buyers, sellers, investors, and real estate professionals. #haasanddawe #realestate #escrow #housingmarket #CPA

Ep. 22 - The Recipe For Starting Your Own Escrow Company

In this episode of Debits and Credits, Michael C. Haas, CPA walks through the key steps to starting your own escrow company. From business formation and licensing requirements to obtaining an EIN, securing a surety bond, fidelity coverage, Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, and meeting California regulatory requirements, Michael provides a practical roadmap for launching an independent escrow business. Whether you're considering opening an escrow company or simply want to understand what's involved, this episode offers valuable insight into the planning, compliance, and financial safeguards needed to get started. #haasanddawe #Escrow #EscrowBusiness #DFPI #SuretyBond #EAFC #EOInsurance  #CaliforniaEscrow #CPA #EscrowIndustry #DebitsAndCreditsPodcast

Ep. 21 - Working With Outside Regulators: How We Can Help

In this episode of Debits and Credits, Michael C. Haas, CPA discusses how escrow companies can effectively work with outside regulators and why preparation is essential for maintaining compliance. Michael explains the roles of agencies such as the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI), the Department of Real Estate (DRE), and the California Department of Insurance (CDI), and shares how trusted advisors can help companies navigate audits, examinations, and regulatory inquiries. From record keeping and compliance procedures to responding to requests from regulators, this episode provides practical guidance for escrow professionals seeking to build confidence and maintain strong relationships with oversight agencies. #HaasandDawe #DFPI #DRE #DepartmentOfInsurance #Compliance #RegulatoryAudit #Escrow #CPA #DebitsAndCreditsPodcast #FinancialRegulation #ConsumerProtection

EP. 20: DFPI Regulatory Audits: What Escrow Companies Can Expect

In this episode of Debits and Credits, Michael C. Haas, CPA takes an in-depth look at DFPI Regulatory Audits and what licensed California escrow companies should expect during a regulatory examination. Michael discusses the role of the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI), audit procedures, trust account reconciliation requirements under CCR § 1732.2, and financial responsibility standards under California Financial Code § 17210. He also explains how proper recordkeeping, internal controls, and compliance with state regulations help escrow companies successfully navigate audits and protect client funds. Whether you're an escrow officer, manager, owner, or industry professional, this episode provides valuable insight into maintaining compliance and preparing for a DFPI examination. #DFPI #RegulatoryAudits #Escrow #CaliforniaEscrow #Compliance #TrustAccounting  #EscrowIndustry #CPA #InternalControls #DebitsAndCreditsPodcast

Ep. 19 - Notary Best Practices From An Escrow Perspective

In this episode of Debits and Credits, Michael C. Haas, CPA discusses Notary Best Practices from an Escrow Perspective. He covers key considerations when selecting a notary or signing service, the importance of working with trusted professionals, common fee structures, liability concerns, and the benefits of maintaining an in-house notary program.  Michael also explains how proper notary procedures help protect clients, reduce risk, and support the integrity of escrow and real estate transactions. #haasanddawe #notary #scrow #certifiedpublicaccountant