About
At Platinum Key Escrow Inc., our team is committed to guiding your real estate transactions from start to finish with accuracy and efficiency. Escrow offers a secure, neutral space for holding funds or property until every requirement in your agreement has been properly fulfilled. Backed by extensive industry experience and a reputation for exceptional service, we take the time to understand your goals and deliver support you can rely on.
Whether you're preparing to sell your home, purchasing a property and seeking assurance that all conditions are met, or representing clients as an agent, our team is here to simplify the process and keep your transaction on track.
To discover how our escrow expertise can support your next transaction, reach out to us today. Our office is located in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, and we’re available by phone, fax, or email during normal business hours. Even better—stop by and meet us in person!
We proudly offer escrow services for a wide range of transactions, including:
• Residential Real Estate
• Vacant Land
• Short Sales
• REO Properties
• For Sale by Owner (FSBO)
• Conventional Financing
• Private Money Loans
• 1031 Exchanges
Meet Our Team

Judy Smith
Escrow Officer/Manager
With 36 years of experience in the Escrow Industry, Judy came to Platinum Key Escrow for “a wonderful opportunity and support system to build a successful and productive company.” Judy is described as hardworking, enthusiastic, and professional. She believes that “there are no excuses, just solutions.” Judy’s top priority in closing a successful escrow is doing what it takes to get the job done right and make her clients happy. Judy is committed to providing exceptional escrow service while staying current in the industry through her involvement with the Escrow Institute of California (EIC) and the California Escrow Association (CEA), and is a Notary Public. Judy has lived in Orange County for the past 53 years and enjoys spending time with her family, friends and traveling.

Ashley Knoles
Escrow Officer
Ashley Knoles has been part of the escrow industry for over 13 years and truly loves what she does. She takes pride in helping clients navigate the escrow process with ease, always aiming to make each transaction smooth and stress-free. Her experience and genuine care for her clients have earned her a reputation for being dependable, knowledgeable, and approachable. When she’s not at the office, Ashley enjoys spending time outdoors – whether she’s hiking a new trail, traveling to new places, or relaxing with her dog. Her love for adventure and connection shines through in both her work and her personal life.

Erica Siems
Jr. Escrow Officer
With now over 5 years of experience, Erica has climbed the escrow ladder front starting as a receptionist, then and escrow assistant, and now a Junior Escrow Officer. The best part of working at Platinum Key Escrow for her is the joy she gets from helping others find their forever home. Oh- she also gets to work with her mom, Judy.! When she’s not at the office, you can find Erica spending time with her husband, her 3 year old son, and dachshund, Dottie!

AJ Kenney
Escrow Assistant
AJ brings 9 years of escrow industry experience to the Platinum Key Escrow team. Along with nearly a decade of experience, her exceptional customer service skills ensure a smooth, stress-free process for first-time homebuyers and seasoned investors alike. Her sharp eye for detail and strong communication skills guarantee each transaction is handled with precision and care. Outside of the office, AJ enjoys camping, cooking, and spending quality time with her dog, who’s always by her side during weekend adventures or cozy nights in.