(a) Notwithstanding the provisions of Division 6 (commencing with Section 17000) or any other provision of law, an association or service corporation may act as an escrow agent in connection with the sale, transfer, encumbering or leasing of real or personal property.
(b) The name for any subdivision of an association operating as an escrow agent pursuant to this section, if different from the name of the association, shall be approved by the commissioner.