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From consultation to closing: The definitive homebuying checklist

Housing Wire

Buyers agents are not just bright smiles that open doors were the guide our clients rely on to navigate the homebuying process. Thats why having a definitive homebuying checklist is an essential part of your agent toolkit. Related article Our 19-point house-hunting checklist for real estate agents & their clients 5.

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What is Due Diligence in Real Estate?

Redfin

You put an offer on a home and it’s been accepted, now the due diligence period begins. In real estate, the due diligence period is the time between an accepted offer and closing. Table of contents What is due diligence in real estate? What happens in the due diligence period?

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Earnest Money vs. Due Diligence in Real Estate: Key Distinctions Buyers Should Know

Redfin

When buying a home, understanding earnest money vs. due diligence is key. Earnest money is a refundable deposit held in escrow to show your serious intent to buy, while due diligence fees are usually non-refundable payments made directly to the seller to secure time for inspections and evaluations.

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Here’s What Your Real Estate Agent Means When They Say “We’re In Escrow”

Redfin

When a home is in escrow, it means the buyer and seller have signed a purchase agreement, and an escrow account has been opened to securely hold the buyer’s earnest money deposit. The escrow account holds the deposit along with important documents like the purchase contract, loan paperwork, and the deed.

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9 Smart Tips for Making an Offer on a House That Stands Out

Redfin

In addition to getting pre-approved, having cash reserves prepared for your earnest money deposit and other closing expenses is also one of the top tips for making an offer on a house. In the average market, a typical earnest money deposit is 1-3% of the home’s purchase price. Is a 20% counteroffer too much?

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3 Big Reasons Your Home Offer Was Rejected—and How To Play It Right Next Time

Realtor.com

Keep in mind that sellers are looking for a good deal just as much as you are, and you should plan on working with your real estate agent to make sure the sellers at least feel like they’re getting one. “But that’s not to say that a buyer should waive the due diligence period,” she adds.

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A Seller’s Guide To When A Buyer Does and Doesn’t Get Their Earnest Money Back

HomeLight

If a seller terminates the contract outside of these contingencies , they typically must forfeit the buyer’s earnest money and — depending on the circumstances — may even be required to pay additional money damages and face other possible repercussions for breach of contract. Well, then they lose the earnest money.