Drop Off your 1st Earnest Money Check
Buying a Home: Handling Your Earnest Money Deposit
Congratulations! Your offer has been accepted, and you’re officially under contract! Now, the next step is to submit your earnest money deposit (EMD)—a key part of the home-buying process.
If you're unfamiliar with earnest money and its role in a transaction, click here to read a detailed guide explaining what it is and why it matters.
How to Submit Your Earnest Money Deposit
We will email you all the details, including:
✅ The exact deposit amount required per your contract
✅ Who to make the check payable to (typically the seller’s brokerage or title company)
✅ Where and how to submit it (drop-off, mailing instructions, or electronic payment options)
Payment Instructions
Certified Bank or Cashier’s Check Required
You’ll need to visit your bank and request a certified bank check or cashier’s check (personal checks are not accepted).
When getting the check, be sure to:
Write "EM check for [property address]" in the For/Memo line.
Place the check in an envelope but do not seal it yet.
Write "EM check for [property address]" and your name on the outside of the envelope.
Send me a copy of the check before you mail it off
Where to Drop Off or Mail Your Earnest Money
In-Person Drop-Off
Most commonly, the check will need to be delivered to either:
The seller’s Realtor’s office or
The title company
Best Practices for Dropping Off Your Check:
✔ Go during business hours to obtain a receipt or confirmation from the recipient.
✔ Make a copy of the check before dropping it off.
✔ Text us a picture of the check after dropping it off so we can notify the seller’s agent that it's been received.
Mailing the Check? Use a Tracking Service
If mailing, we recommend sending it via Priority Mail, FedEx, or UPS with tracking. Once mailed:
✔ Take a picture of the check before sealing the envelope.
✔ Text us the tracking number so we can monitor its arrival.
After-Hours or No Receptionist?
Some small brokerages and title companies have drop boxes near the front entrance. If using one:
✔ Take a photo of the drop box and your envelope before placing it inside.
Electronic Earnest Money Payment
Some brokerages and title companies now offer an electronic payment option for earnest money. If you prefer this method, let us know—we’ll provide the secure wire transfer details for your payment.
Wire Fraud Alert
If opting for a wire transfer, always confirm instructions directly with the title company by phone before sending funds. Never rely solely on emailed wire instructions to prevent fraud.
A Few Final Reminders
🔹 Your earnest money deposit is applied toward your final down payment.
🔹 It must be submitted within the contract deadline, which is typically within 5 business days of contract execution—but sooner is always better.
🔹 We will follow up with the seller’s brokerage or title company to obtain an Earnest Money Deposit Receipt, which will be needed for your mortgage underwriting process.
Questions? We’re Here to Help!
If you have any questions or need assistance with your earnest money deposit, don't hesitate to reach out. We’re here to ensure everything is handled smoothly!
