What is earnest money and why is it required?

Explains it as a good-faith deposit demonstrating intent to purchase. It is held in escrow and applied toward down payments or closing costs.

How much earnest money should I expect to pay?

Varies based on market and negotiation; typically 1% to 3% of the purchase price. Advice from a real estate agent is recommended.

When must the earnest money be delivered?

Timeframe is specified in the Purchase Agreement, typically 1–3 business days from contract acceptance.

What happens to my earnest money if the deal falls through?

Depends on the agreement. It is typically refunded if cancelled within a contingency period (inspection/financing) but may be kept by the seller if the buyer defaults.

How will I know my deposit was received?

Written confirmation is sent via email to the address on file and can be provided to the real estate agent.

Can I pay with a personal check?

Yes, personal, cashier’s, and certified checks are accepted for in-person delivery. Note that personal checks may have a hold period; cashier’s checks are recommended for faster processing.

$ BUYER INSTRUCTIONS

Earnest Money Deposit Instructions

Your earnest money deposit demonstrates your commitment to purchasing the property. Below you will find clear instructions for securely delivering your deposit to Redeemer Title & Closing Services.

i

Earnest money must be delivered within the timeframe required by your Purchase Agreement.

How to Deliver Your Deposit

Choose the delivery option that works best for you. Both methods are secure and handled by Redeemer Title & Closing Services.

Option 1

In-Person Delivery

Redeemer Title & Closing Services
8686 Madison Avenue, Suite D1
Indianapolis, IN 46227

Business Hours
Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Bring a valid photo ID.
Include the property address on the check memo.
Ask for a written receipt when you deliver your check.

Get Directions

Option 2

Wire Transfer

To receive secure wire instructions, please email:
slian365@redeemertitle.com

Important Requirement
All wired funds must include the property address in the wire reference field.

Include your name and property address in all correspondence.
Watch for wire instructions from Redeemer Title within one business day.
Call the number on your Purchase Agreement or closing documents to verify instructions before sending funds.

Request Wire Instructions

Wire Fraud Warning - Protect Your Money

Criminals sometimes attempt to intercept emails and send fake wire instructions in order to steal earnest money deposits.

Never Trust Email Alone

Always verify wire instructions by calling our office directly at a known, correct phone number—not a number provided only in an email.

Call to Verify: (317) 555-1234

When in doubt, call us before sending any funds.

We Will Never Change Instructions

Redeemer Title will never email you asking to change wire instructions or send funds to a different account. If you receive such a message, do not respond or send any money.

Secure Escrow Account

Earnest money is held in a federally insured escrow account, kept strictly separate from internal operating funds.

Your Security & Privacy Matter

We are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of safety for your earnest money deposits and personal data, ensuring complete peace of mind throughout your transaction.

Full Transparency

Receive written confirmation of receipt instantly and request digital status updates on your deposit at any time.

Regulatory Compliance

We adhere to all state and federal regulations regarding escrow account management and secure handling procedures.

Licensed & Insured

Our agency is fully licensed and carries comprehensive errors and omissions insurance for your financial protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about earnest money deposits and the process.