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Oh License Law Orc 4735Trust_accounts_2_banking_daysHARD

An Ohio broker receives a $20,000 earnest money check from a buyer on Monday. The buyer's offer has not yet been accepted by the seller. On Tuesday, before any acceptance occurs, the buyer withdraws the offer in writing and requests return of the check. Under ORC Chapter 4735, what is the broker's most appropriate course of action?

Correct Answer

B) Return the check directly to the buyer, since no contract was formed and the deposit obligation has not yet been triggered

Under ORC §4735.18, the broker's obligation to deposit earnest money into a trust account is triggered upon acceptance of the offer, not merely upon receipt of the check. Because the buyer withdrew the offer in writing before acceptance occurred, no binding contract was formed and the deposit obligation was never triggered. Returning the check to the buyer is the appropriate action, and the broker should document the withdrawal and return of funds.

Answer Options
A
Deposit the check into the trust account immediately and hold it until a court orders disbursement
B
Return the check directly to the buyer, since no contract was formed and the deposit obligation has not yet been triggered
C
Forward the check to the seller, because earnest money is considered the seller's property once submitted with an offer
D
Retain the check uncashed until both the buyer and seller sign a written mutual release authorizing its return

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

offer_withdrawaldeposit_firstproper_documentationORC_4735

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