A deposit from the buyer to the seller, held in escrow, to demonstrate good-faith commitment to the purchase. Typically 1-3% of sale price. Cash buyers often submit earnest money within 1-3 days of contract signing.
Related terms
Reviewed by John Quigley · Founder, BuyHousesInCash · Last updated May 2026
Selling a house in a hurry?
We close in 7 days. No fees, no repairs, no agent commissions.
Get a Cash Offer →