Is it ok to offer $100 as earnest money just to lock down a contract or would that be take as disrespect ?

I always include $1,000 earnest money on my contracts.

In my area, Purchase Price - EMD $200k & under - $2500 $300k - $5,000 $400k - $10,000 $750k & up - $25,000 or more.

The more desperate the owner is to sell and the less exprience they have in the business the less earnest money they will probably make you put down. There is no "standard", but any less than $1000 makes you look like you don't know what you are doing to someone who has experience in real estate transactions.

Customary in my area is $500 for properties under $300K which is pretty low. I drop $5000 on deals and my offer stands out. You can offer whatever you want, but $100 versus $5000, who would you think is more legit?

Don't feel too bad. During the recession I saw $100 deposits often. This was from people with zero down financing, such as VA or RD mortgages. Heck, I'd even reimburse the buyer for their inspections and all closing costs. Anything to make the sale! Now, in a seller's market, deposits are higher, as you've seen in the other comments.

@Gregory Jerome 100? Hahahaha. At least 1k. If you don't have it, then you are telling the seller you don't have enough to close.

I usually offer 10K EM deposit. This shows the seller I am SERIOUS about buying their property and have no intention or backing out and wasting their time.

You're welcome! Go get your deal done! @Gregory Jerome

Yes, on or before you contract the property. @Gregory Jerome

As has been stated already, the amount of the earnest money deposit can vary depending on local custom, local market conditions, and seller motivation. EMD is only one arrow in your quiver when seeking to craft an acceptable offer. Use it in conjunction with offer price, contingencies (or lack thereof) and closing deadline to make your offer suit the needs of the seller. How to identify these needs? Talk to the seller, or if working through an agent provide several options to be presented on your behalf.

What is the normal going rate of earnest money?What is the normal going rate of earnest money?

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What is the normal going rate of earnest money?

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