Remove Closing costs Remove Earnest money deposit Remove Title search
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What is Due Diligence in Real Estate?

Redfin

In some states, buyers may also pay due diligence money—a non-refundable fee paid directly to the seller in exchange for this inspection window. While not required everywhere, it’s an important part of the process in certain markets and is separate from the earnest money deposit. This only applies in certain states.

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17 First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes to Consider and How to Avoid Them

Redfin

Don’t skip critical steps like the home inspection or negotiating closing costs. Take note of closing costs, loan terms, and any additional fees. Missing out on first-time homebuyer programs Between saving for a down payment and covering closing costs, buying a home can feel financially overwhelming.

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Is Earnest Money Refundable? When You Can (and Can’t) Get It Back

Redfin

When you make an offer on a home, you’ll usually include earnest money – a deposit that shows the seller you’re a serious buyer. This good-faith payment, typically 1% to 3% of the purchase price, is held in escrow and applied to your down payment or closing costs if the sale goes through.

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Home Buying Process Timeline: 17 Steps Every Buyer Should Know

Redfin

Determine your budget Estimated time: 2-4 weeks Before jumping into your home search the first step is to determine how much you can afford. You may have saved enough for your down payment, but make sure to also account for closing costs, taxes, insurance, and any other unforeseen expenses that may arise.

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

HomeLight

It is usually held in the broker’s or title company’s trust or escrow account until closing. The earnest money typically goes towards the buyer’s down payment or closing costs. Title search reveals a lien or ownership issue. How can sellers keep the earnest money?

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Closing on a House Checklist: 6 Things Home Buyers Must Do Before They Move In

Realtor.com

If the appraised value is less than the sale price, the contingency enables you to back out of the deal without forfeiting your earnest money deposit , says Bishoi Nageh , president of the Petra Cephas Team at Mortgage Network Solutions, in Somerset, NJ. If you spot any discrepancies, ask your lender to explain them.

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What Does It Mean When a House Is in Escrow?

HomeLight

Here’s what you can expect: Title search: Verifying the property’s legal ownership and any existing liens or claims. Escrow account while buying a home During the homebuying process, an escrow account holds the buyer’s earnest money deposit, which is sometimes referred to as a good faith deposit.