When you make an offer on a house, it is accompanied by an earnest money check. Earnest money is intended to demonstrate that you are "in earnest" about purchasing the property. The earnest money check is made out to the listing company. What happens to this check?

The party holding the check acts as an escrow agent until you go into closing. At that time you will receive credit for the amount of your check against the down payment and closing costs. Real estate brokers are required by law to keep escrow funds in a special account. These funds cannot be used to pay any other expenses associated with the sale. If you don't complete the transaction, the purchase contract determines the disposition of your earnest money funds. Be sure to review this part of your contract with the real estate agent.

If you are in default on your agreement, the funds may go to the sellers, so be sure that you understand the deadlines in order to avoid breach of contract and forfeiture of your deposit. If you have any questions, be sure to ask your real estate agent for advice.

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Elizabeth Brien
The Charles Reinhart Company Realtors
2355 W. Stadium
Ann Arbor, MI. 48103
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Elizabeth Brien is a dedicated champion for the achievement of the dreams and goals of her clients and their families. Elizabeth's keen ability to establish relationships with her clients, her vast marketplace knowledge, and her focus and effort, have resulted in a significant list of satisfied, and often repeat, clients. Elizabeth has over 29 years of experience throughout the entire residential market - new construction and re-sale of homes, condos and income properties. With over $65 million in sales in 2012, and $774 million in career sales, Elizabeth Brien was again the top-selling realtor in Washtenaw County and The Charles Reinhart Company in 2012. Please contact Elizabeth for information concerning the Ann Arbor and greater Washtenaw County areas, and for assistance in buying or selling a home in Ann Arbor, Saline, Dexter, Chelsea or any other part of Washtenaw County. She'll be happy to help in any way she can.

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