Key takeaways
- Earnest money and option fees are both payments buyers make when submitting an offer on a home, but they serve different purposes.
- Earnest money shows a buyer’s commitment and is applied toward the purchase at closing.
- Option fees secure the buyer’s right to terminate the contract during a defined option period.
- Both payments have specific timelines, refund rules, and conditions depending on the purchase contract.
What is earnest money?
Earnest money is a good-faith deposit that demonstrates a buyer’s serious intent to purchase a home. It serves as a financial commitment to the seller, showing that the buyer plans to move forward with the transaction.
The amount of earnest money varies by market, but it typically ranges from 1% to 3% of the home’s purchase price. This deposit is usually delivered to the title company or escrow agent for safekeeping. If the deal closes, the earnest money is applied toward the buyer’s down payment or closing costs.
If the sale falls through under certain conditions, such as inspection or financing issues, the buyer may be able to recover the deposit. However, if the buyer cancels for reasons not covered in the contract, the seller may keep the earnest money as compensation.
Understanding earnest money
In most real estate contracts, earnest money is due shortly after the offer is accepted, often within three business days. It’s held by a neutral third party until the sale closes or the contract is terminated. This ensures that both the buyer and seller are protected during the transaction.
If the deal moves forward, the earnest money is credited toward the buyer’s closing costs or down payment. If the deal falls through under valid contingencies, the buyer may be entitled to a refund as long as all contract terms are met.
What is an option fee?
An option fee gives the buyer a defined option period, a short window of time to conduct inspections and decide whether to move forward with the purchase. During this period, the buyer can cancel the contract for any reason and only lose the option fee.
Option fees are typically smaller than earnest money deposits, often between $100 and $500. This fee compensates the seller for taking the home off the market while the buyer performs due diligence. It’s usually non-refundable, although if the transaction closes, the fee is credited toward the final purchase price.
Earnest money vs. option fee: A side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Earnest Money | Option Fee |
| Purpose | Shows the buyer’s commitment to purchasing the home; applied to the sales price or closing costs. | Gives the buyer the right to terminate the contract for any reason during the option period; compensates the seller for taking the home off the market. |
| Refundability | Usually refundable if the buyer terminates during the option period, subject to contract terms. | Typically non-refundable if the buyer cancels the contract. |
| Application to Closing | Credited toward the buyer’s down payment and closing costs. | Credited toward the purchase price if the sale closes, but not returned if the buyer backs out. |
| Typical Holder | Held by a neutral third party, such as a title company or escrow agent. | Paid directly to the seller or held by the title company and released to the seller. |
When can you cancel the contract and keep your earnest money?
Buyers can usually cancel the contract and retain their earnest money under specific conditions outlined in the purchase agreement. The most common include:
- During the option period: The buyer can cancel for any reason and typically recover the earnest money, although the option fee is forfeited.
- If financing falls through: If the loan is denied despite a good-faith effort, the buyer may terminate under the financing contingency and keep the earnest money.
- If inspection or appraisal issues arise: If the property doesn’t meet inspection or appraisal standards and no resolution is reached with the seller, the buyer can cancel under the contingency clause.
- If the seller fails to meet obligations: If the seller doesn’t fulfill agreed-upon terms, the buyer may have grounds to terminate the contract and recover the earnest money.
If you cancel outside these conditions or after the option period ends, you may lose your earnest money.
Where does the money go?
Both the earnest money and option fee are handled carefully during the transaction:
- Earnest money: This deposit is usually delivered to the title company or escrow agent, where it remains until closing or termination. At closing, it’s credited toward the buyer’s down payment or closing costs. If the sale falls through, the escrow agent releases the funds according to the contract terms.
- Option fee: This fee is often paid directly to the seller or through the title company, which then releases it to the seller. The option fee compensates the seller for taking the home off the market during the option period.
Always confirm payment delivery timelines and keep receipts for both payments to avoid disputes later.
How much should buyers expect to pay?
Most buyers deposit between 1% and 3% of the purchase price as earnest money. For example, on a $400,000 home, that would range from $4,000 to $12,000.
The option fee is usually smaller, typically $100 to $500, depending on the property’s price, local market conditions, and the terms negotiated between the buyer and seller.
When are these payments due?
Both payments are typically due within a few days of the contract being signed. Earnest money is delivered to the title company or escrow agent, while the option fee is often sent directly to the seller.
Failure to make these payments within the agreed-upon timeframe could be considered a breach of contract, giving the seller the right to terminate the agreement.
Tips for homebuyers
- Follow payment timelines: Deliver both payments within the contract deadlines.
- Keep documentation: Always request and save proof of payment.
- Understand your rights: Review the option period and contingencies carefully.
- Negotiate strategically: In competitive markets, a higher earnest money or option fee may strengthen your offer.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I lose both my earnest money and option fee?
Yes. If you cancel the contract after the option period ends and outside the agreed-upon contingencies, you may lose both payments. - What happens if the deal falls through because of inspection results?
If you terminate during the option period due to inspection issues, you’ll forfeit the option fee but should recover your earnest money. - Who determines the amounts for these payments?
Both payments are negotiable between the buyer and seller. Your real estate agent can recommend appropriate amounts based on local norms and current market trends.
Making sense of earnest money and option fees
Both earnest money and option fees play important roles in real estate transactions. Earnest money shows commitment, while the option fee provides flexibility. Understanding how these payments work, including when you can cancel and how the funds are handled, helps you make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.
If you’re preparing to buy a home, talk with your real estate agent about appropriate amounts for each fee based on your budget and local market conditions.