Earnest Money Agreement Terms

Summary

In Washington, earnest money agreements in real estate transactions specify payment responsibilities. The buyer usually pays the earnest money deposit, inspection, and appraisal fees. The seller often covers the owners title insurance and real estate excise tax, though these can be negotiated. Closing fees are typically shared, with specifics outlined in the purchase agreement. For detailed advice, consulting a real estate attorney is recommended.

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An earnest money receipt and agreement
Hi Leticia! An earnest money receipt and agreement typically involves real estate transactions. Can you please specify what issue or question you have regarding this document? For example, are you concerned about the terms, the amount, or something else?
Concerned about terms
Hey Leticia, to better assist you, could you share which state you're in? This will help me provide more accurate information regarding the terms of an earnest money receipt and agreement in your area.
Washington
Hey Leticia, here are some general points about earnest money agreements in Washington:
- Earnest Money: A deposit made to demonstrate the buyer's commitment.
- Terms: Should clearly state refund conditions, forfeiture, and application towards the purchase price.
- Disputes: Usually resolved through mediation or arbitration.
For specific terms you're concerned about, it might be best to consult a real estate attorney. Would you like more detailed information on a particular term?
Who pays what
In Washington, the earnest money agreement typically outlines who pays what in a real estate transaction. Here are some key points:
- Earnest Money Deposit: Usually paid by the buyer.
- Closing Costs: Can be negotiated between buyer and seller.
- Inspection Fees: Typically paid by the buyer.
- Appraisal Fees: Usually paid by the buyer.
Would you like more detailed information on any of these points?
Who pays owners title insurance premiums
In Washington, who pays the owner's title insurance premiums can vary based on the terms of the purchase agreement. However, it is common practice for the seller to pay for the owner's title insurance.
Would you like more information on how this is typically negotiated?
Yes
In Washington, negotiations on who pays for the owner's title insurance premiums can vary, but here are some pointers:
- Common Practice: Seller often pays for the owner's title insurance.
- Negotiations: Terms can be negotiated and outlined in the purchase agreement.
- Customs: Local customs and practices can influence who pays.
Would you like advice on how to negotiate this term effectively?
Who plays closing fee if it was paid for in cash
In Washington, the payment of closing fees in a real estate transaction, whether paid in cash or financed, can be negotiated between the buyer and the seller. Typically, both parties share closing costs, but specifics are outlined in the purchase agreement.
Would you like more details on what closing fees typically include?
Yes
In Washington, closing fees typically include:
- Escrow Fees: Charges for the escrow service handling the transaction.
- Title Insurance: Costs for the title search and insurance.
- Recording Fees: Fees for recording the sale with the county.
- Transfer Taxes: Taxes related to transferring property ownership.
- Attorney Fees: If either party uses an attorney.
Would you like more information on any of these specific fees?
Excise tax
In Washington, real estate excise tax is typically paid by the seller. Here are some key points:
- Real Estate Excise Tax (REET): A tax on the sale of real property.
- Rate: Varies based on the sale price and location.
- Payment: Typically the seller's responsibility unless otherwise negotiated.
Would you like more details on how this tax is calculated or how it can be negotiated?
Yes
In Washington, the real estate excise tax (REET) is generally the seller's responsibility. Here’s how it works:
- Calculation: The tax rate varies by location and sale price. For example, higher-value properties may have higher rates.
- Negotiation: Although typically the seller pays, it can be negotiated in the purchase agreement.
Would you like advice on strategies for negotiating this tax?