I always send the funds at the earliest opportunity. Who cares if the title company holds the money for a few weeks? Its not like you’re losing a fortune in interest, and if the company is reputable there’s no chance you’ll lose it, and in all the contracts I’ve bought I’ve never had a seller back out. I’ve had to wait several weeks for docs, and I’ve had to bug the title company and the broker relentlessly, but it’s always worked out. And I’m not sure holding onto the money until the last minute really gives you any kind of leverage, since I don’t think, considering the volume, title companies really care if they lose a deal.
I just like getting my end of the transaction completed. And it does save time. And I think it can motivate a seller to complete their docs when they hear the title company has already received the buyer’s paperwork and is holding the funds.