Peninsula Escrow 

Above L to R: Escrow Officers Brenda Barragan, Victoria Kraft, William Baltazar, Laurie Acore, Diana Matthews, Danielle LaCharite, Adam Winge, Veronica Martinez Seated: Lorena Avila Not pictured: Kevin Kraft, Jackie McGee, Suzanne Lawrence, Eddie Sayles

•••

Highlights

• Residential Home Sales/Bulk Sales
• Commercial
• Refinance
• Mobile Homes

Peninsula Escrow is a full-service escrow company that acts as a neutral third party for real estate transactions, preparing grant deeds, transfer deeds, quitclaim deeds, trust deeds, notes, assignments and requests for notice. The firm’s 13 escrow officers coordinate with lenders, title companies, insurance companies and other agencies to complete each client’s escrow. Peninsula Escrow opened for business in 1989 in Palos Verdes and today has six locations across the South Bay.

We asked the escrow officers at Peninsula Escrow to discuss the services they provide, and how they ensure that each client feels like a top priority while they deliver an efficient, high-quality escrow process every time.

Victoria Kraft: Purchasing a home may be the single most important transaction you make in your lifetime. I work hand in hand with your real estate agent to form a team dedicated to relieving any stress related to the purchase or sale of your home. I understand California law and the steps necessary to bring the dream of owning a home to fruition.

Diana Matthews: I’m a lifelong South Bay resident, and I love that my business supports this amazing area! I provide excellent customer service tailored to clients’ communication preferences and schedules, and I work hard to foster the positive relationships that I’ve built over the years with well-known lenders and vendors.

Kevin Kraft: Communication is of the utmost importance in every transaction. I offer my clients over 44 years of experience handling every type of transaction. One of my specialties is resolving anything that may occur throughout the transaction for a successful closing. I strive to help clients understand the process, eliminate the stress and make buying or selling a home a great experience.

Adam Winge: Buying your forever home can feel overwhelming. I ensure that every client receives my full attention, never rushed. I guide them through each step and document with the same care I’d offer family—supportive, respectful and clear. No jargon, no condescension, just steady guidance when it’s needed most.

Danielle LaCharite: With nearly 30 years of experience, I combine technical expertise with deep empathy. By prioritizing a friendly, caring attitude and active listening, I ensure clients feel heard and understood. This patient, enthusiastic approach transforms escrow transactions into calm, solution-oriented experiences where every customer’s unique needs are met stress-free.

Eddie Sayles: Every transaction is unique, and each client’s needs are distinctive. My careful review of every escrow, thorough communication with the parties and adept problem-solving allow clients to feel secure in their transactions with me.

Laurie Acore: Communication and detail are key to a successful closing. Our team treats every file like it’s our only file. Clients receive clear timelines and same-day responses. We anticipate issues before they surface, coordinate closely with all parties and streamline documents digitally. Our calm, detailed approach ensures a smooth, low-stress, on-time closing—every time.

Brenda Barragan: Throughout the escrow process, I keep all parties informed with timely updates. I treat every client like family, creating a welcoming environment. Understanding escrow can feel overwhelming, so I personally guide clients through each step, clearly explain details, ease concerns and help them feel confident from start to finish.

Lorena Avila: I approach every escrow as more than a transaction; it’s a milestone in someone’s life. I lead with intention, communicate with clarity and stay ahead of every detail to ensure a seamless experience. My clients feel heard and protected because I deliver efficiency with confidence and integrity, backed by unwavering personal commitment.

Suzanne Lawrence: It is still possible to “have it your way.” I blend old-fashioned accessibility (not only in my office all week, but also for in-house signings or to answer questions most weekends), technical expertise based on years of experience, and openness to learning the latest rules and technologies.

Veronica Martinez: I provide a smooth, high-quality escrow experience where every client feels genuinely valued and prioritized. I communicate with clarity, empathy and consistency—guiding step-by-step and easing stress along the way. What makes my service unique is personalized care, proactive attention and a calm, reassuring approach through the escrow process. 

William Baltazar: I personally lead every escrow. Quick replies, straight talk and catching risks early ensure that nothing derails closing. I’m always available by phone, text or email. Clients feel secure—funds protected, everything transparent, and we record on time with no surprises.

Photographed by Shane O’Donnell