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The Earnest Money Deposit, aka EMD.

By
Real Estate Agent with Remerica Integrity, Realtors®, Northville, MI

The Earnest Money Deposit, aka EMD.

This is a deposit, sometimes referred to as a good-faith deposit, that goes toward the purchase of a real estate transaction. It's to show that you are "serious" about purchasing the property.

EMD amounts:

  • Under $100k purchase price - $500.
  • Over $100k purchase price - $1000.
  • $200k and above - 1% of the purchase price.
  • Earnest Money Deposits can vary and change during negotiations.

When the seller accepts the offer, the deposit will be deposited into an escrow account by the Broker*. The money will be applied to the buyers closing costs and/or purchase price at closing. If the offer is rejected, the EMD will be returned to the buyers.

A copy of the EMD will be given with the Purchase Agreement.

*The EMD must be deposited by the Broker within 48 hours by state law. Please make sure you have the money in your account (if paying by check) or have a certified check.

Chris Ann Cleland
Long and Foster Real Estate - Gainesville, VA
Associate Broker, Bristow, VA

In general, though there is no set rule to EMD amounts in our market, the norm is to see at least 1% of the sales price.  The more money, the more serious the buyer.

Jul 15, 2012 05:16 AM
Eric Michael
Remerica Integrity, Realtors®, Northville, MI - Livonia, MI
Metro Detroit Real Estate Professional 734.564.1519

Chris Ann, I try to get as much as possible for my listings and put up the least possible with my buyers.

Jul 15, 2012 05:41 AM