deposits
In So Cal, the real estate deposit check is held uncashed in a trust account by the broker during negotiations. Only when escrow opens is the check delivered to escrow and held in trust until the transaction closes. The deposit check is NEVER given directly to the seller, it is included in the final settlement. In a boat transaction between private parties, I would only consider an earnest money deposit if there were a neutral third party (escrow) facilitating the transaction and a formal, written contract.
In So Cal, the real estate deposit check is held uncashed in a trust account by the broker during negotiations. Only when escrow opens is the check delivered to escrow and held in trust until the transaction closes. The deposit check is NEVER given directly to the seller, it is included in the final settlement. In a boat transaction between private parties, I would only consider an earnest money deposit if there were a neutral third party (escrow) facilitating the transaction and a formal, written contract.