EstatePass
Oh Specific Contracts FormsContract_essentials_ohMEDIUM

Steve, an Ohio broker, is handling a transaction where the buyer and seller cannot agree on the disposition of the $8,000 earnest money after the contract falls through. Both parties claim entitlement to the funds. Under Ohio law, what must Steve do with the disputed earnest money?

Correct Answer

D) Retain the funds in the trust account until receiving written instructions from both parties or a court order

Under ORC §4735.24, when there is a dispute over earnest money, the broker must retain the funds in the trust account until receiving mutually agreed-upon written instructions from both parties or a court order directing disposition. The broker cannot unilaterally distribute disputed funds.

Answer Options
A
Split the earnest money equally between the buyer and seller
B
Return the full amount to the buyer because the buyer deposited the funds
C
Forward the funds to the Ohio Division of Real Estate for disposition
D
Retain the funds in the trust account until receiving written instructions from both parties or a court order

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Deep Analysis of This Oh Specific Contracts Forms Question

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Background Knowledge for Oh Specific Contracts Forms

Sign up free to unlock full analysis
Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Real World Application in Oh Specific Contracts Forms

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Common Mistakes to Avoid on Oh Specific Contracts Forms Questions

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

earnest_money_disputetrust_accountdisputed_fundsORC_4735.24

Related Concepts

An assignment of contract transfers one party's rights and obligations under a contract to a third party called the assignee. The original party, known as the assignor, transfers their contractual position to someone who was not originally part of the agreement.

A bilateral contract is an agreement in which both parties exchange promises and are both obligated to perform, while a unilateral contract is one in which only one party makes a promise and the other party is not obligated to act.

A breach of contract occurs when one party fails to perform their obligations under the contract without a legal excuse. The non-breaching party is entitled to legal remedies including damages, specific performance, or contract rescission.

Was this explanation helpful?

More Oh Specific Contracts Forms Questions

People Also Study

Practice More Questions

Access 2,000+ practice questions and pass your real estate exam.

Start Practicing