— Topic
Earnest Money
When you get earnest money back in Florida and when it is at risk — under the FAR/BAR contract.
The FAR-BAR Contract in Florida: A Section-by-Section Walkthrough
The FAR-BAR AS-IS contract governs 95%+ of Florida residential transactions. Here is what buyers and sellers need to know about the key sections — from deposit structure to inspection rights, financing contingency, title evidence, and what happens when someone defaults.
Reading a Florida Builder Contract: The 7 Clauses That Bite Buyers
Builder contracts in Florida are written by the builder's attorneys — not yours. Seven specific clauses show up in every standard agreement and routinely catch buyers off guard: delivery-date language, force majeure scope, price escalation, deposit forfeiture, design center commitments, warranty carve-outs, and arbitration waivers.
Earnest Money in Florida: When You Get It Back and When You Don't
In Florida, most buyers get their earnest money back if they cancel during a valid contingency window and give proper written notice. Once contingencies expire, that deposit is at risk. Here is exactly when each scenario applies under the FAR/BAR contract.
The Florida Real Estate Closing Process, Step by Step
Florida closings take 30–45 days for financed purchases and as few as 10 for cash. Here is what happens at each stage — from the escrow deposit through the closing table — and what to watch for so nothing derails your timeline.
How to Win a Bidding War in Florida: Offer Tactics That Actually Work
Multiple offers are still common on well-priced Florida homes, even as the broader market cools. These are the specific tactics — price, terms, and timing — that help buyers compete without overpaying or waiving protections they cannot afford to lose.
Which Contingencies to Waive — and Which to Keep — When Buying in Florida
Waiving contingencies can make your offer stand out — but each one you drop puts real money at risk. Here's how to think through the inspection, financing, and appraisal contingencies in a Florida purchase.