Trust Funds

When a real estate transaction closes, how should the earnest money be handled?

AReturned to the buyer
BApplied to the buyer's closing costs or down payment as specified in the contract✓ Correct
CRetained by the listing broker as their commission
DHeld in trust for 30 days after closing

Explanation

At closing, the earnest money is typically credited to the buyer and applied toward their down payment or closing costs, as specified in the purchase agreement. It is disbursed by the closing agent according to the closing disclosure.

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