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  • Can I refuse to deposit earnest money to get out a new home purchase/sale agreement that I signed earlier?

    Posted by admin on November 4th, 2009 and filed under new home for sale | 4 Comments »

    I signed a purchase/sale agreement to buy a new construction home. I waived financing and inspection in the agreement. But I have not deposited earnest money yet. Now I want to walk away from the deal. The sell threatens to sue me if I do not deposit the earnest money.

    You must have consideration for it to be a legal contract. Without a deposit you have no contract. He can’t sue you for anything.

    4 Responses

    1. hawkthree Says:

      Boring as it sounds, you need to look at the agreement to see what your penalties might be. Are you obligated to find a replacement buyer? Will you have to pay a percentalage of the amount? The contract has the details.
      However, in the state of Maryland (and Virginia) you can renege on a contract up to 72 hours with no penalty. You can probably do some googling to find out if this applies in your state.
      References :

    2. Dan S Says:

      If the deposition of earnest money is a clause in the contract you signed you are boligated to post that money. The two other clauses you recite may be illegal in your jurisdiction. contatct a lawyer or legal aid about them
      Dan the Answers-Man
      References :

    3. thetoothfairyiscreepy Says:

      this is what happens when people don’t use realtors!
      References :

    4. akc1106 Says:

      You must have consideration for it to be a legal contract. Without a deposit you have no contract. He can’t sue you for anything.
      References :
      I’m a REALTOR in Maryland

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