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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. How the Process Works 3.

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7 Common Contingencies in Real Estate That Buyers Should Know

Redfin

Title contingency A title contingency gives the buyer the right to review the results of a title search and cancel the contract if any issues related to ownership or property rights are uncovered. The title company typically conducts this search shortly after the contract is signed.

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

Redfin

If this happens and they’ve included the right contingency, the buyer can usually walk away with their earnest money deposit. Without this contingency, the buyer could be on the hook for the difference, or risk losing their earnest money if they walk away.

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

Redfin

If no agreement is reached and you have an inspection contingency, you can cancel the sale without penalty and get your earnest money back. Refraining from negotiating closing costs Closing costs include fees for services like the home appraisal and title search, typically paid out of pocket at closing.

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Home Buying Process Timeline: 17 Steps Every Buyer Should Know

Redfin

Decide on important terms like earnest money deposits, contingencies (inspection, financing), and closing dates that can make your offer stand out. During this time, your lender will finalize your mortgage, the home will be appraised and inspected, and a title search will be conducted.

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

HomeLight

During the due diligence period, which can vary by state, a buyer lines up fact-finding research such as a home inspection , appraisal , and title search. If the buyer’s home doesn’t sell within the timeline they’ve contractually outlined, they are entitled to their earnest money when they back out of the deal.

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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.