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Can a Seller Keep the Earnest Money Deposit? Yes – Here’s When

Redfin

The money is held in escrow and is typically applied towards the buyer’s closing costs or down payment. So when can a seller legally keep the earnest money deposit? Example scenario: The buyer’s contract requires them to provide a mortgage commitment letter by a certain date.

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Earnest Money and House Deposits Explained

Rochester Real Estate

The Essentials of Home Deposits When you make an offer on a house , you want the seller to take their property off the market. This isn’t without risk for the seller, and to show you are serious about the purchase, a good faith house deposit is required. (585) 704-7095 Contact Now Search Homes Home Fair Housing S.O.P.

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Should You Make a Clean, No-Contingency Offer?

Redfin

If the conditions stipulated in the contingency clause are not met, the buyer can break the contract without facing financial repercussions. Therefore, contingencies are a means of providing buyers with protection against the risks involved in purchasing a home.

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7 Common Contingencies in Real Estate That Buyers Should Know

Redfin

This Redfin article explains how contingencies work, which ones to expect, and how they help you avoid costly setbacks during the homebuying process. Home inspection contingency This is one of the most frequently used contingencies in real estate. In certain areas, additional contingencies may be especially important.

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

Redfin

Key Takeaways: Shopping mortgage rates, reviewing your credit report, and looking into first-time home buyer programs can improve your financial situation and increase your choices. Don’t skip critical steps like the home inspection or negotiating closing costs. For instance, on a $350,000 mortgage, a 3.5%

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Can You Back Out of Buying a House Before Closing?

Redfin

Contingencies provide legal exits for specific situations. Backing out without cause may result in losing your earnest money deposit. Common contingencies include: Financing contingency: Protects buyers if they can’t secure a mortgage loan. When is an ideal time to back out?

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

Redfin

Buyer is unable to secure financing A financing or mortgage contingency protects buyers if they’re unable to get approved for a home loan. If this happens and they’ve included the right contingency, the buyer can usually walk away with their earnest money deposit.