Contracts

In Iowa, a buyer who defaults on a purchase contract by refusing to close may face which of the following as a potential remedy for the seller?

AOnly the return of the listing fee to the seller
BRetention of earnest money as liquidated damages, or a lawsuit for specific performance or actual damages✓ Correct
CAutomatic penalty of 10% of the sale price
DOnly a fine paid to the Iowa Real Estate Commission

Explanation

When a buyer defaults, the seller's remedies may include: (1) retaining the earnest money as liquidated damages if specified in the contract, (2) suing for specific performance to compel the buyer to close, or (3) suing for actual damages. The available remedies depend on the contract terms.

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