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ContractsEarnest_money_and_escrowMEDIUM

A broker holds earnest money and both the buyer and seller claim it after a failed transaction. Neither party will agree to release. What should the broker do?

Correct Answer

B) File an interpleader action and let the court decide

When both parties claim the earnest money and cannot agree, the broker should file an interpleader action to deposit the funds with the court and let the court determine who is entitled.

Answer Options
A
Give the money to the seller because the seller listed the property
B
File an interpleader action and let the court decide
C
Give the money to the buyer because the buyer deposited it
D
Keep the money as a commission

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

earnest_money_and_escrowcontractsinterpleaderdispute

Related Concepts

A financing contingency makes the purchase contract conditional upon the buyer obtaining mortgage approval within a specified time period. If the buyer cannot secure financing, they can cancel the contract and receive their earnest money back.

An inspection contingency gives the buyer the right to have the property professionally inspected within a specified time frame and to negotiate repairs or cancel the contract based on the findings.

Liquidated damages are a predetermined amount of money specified in the contract that the non-breaching party is entitled to receive if the other party breaches. In real estate, the earnest money deposit typically serves as liquidated damages.

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