Contracts
What is 'earnest money' in an Illinois real estate transaction, and what happens to it if the sale closes?
AA fee paid to the listing agent; returned to the buyer after closing
BA good-faith deposit demonstrating the buyer's serious intent; applied toward the purchase price or closing costs at closing✓ Correct
CA non-refundable fee paid to the seller upon offer acceptance
DInsurance premium paid by the buyer to protect against title defects
Explanation
Earnest money is a good-faith deposit submitted with a purchase offer that demonstrates the buyer's seriousness and intention to complete the purchase. In Illinois, earnest money is held in the listing broker's trust account (or by an attorney or title company).
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