How can I get my earnest money back? Please help

[Jennifer Kim]

I would appreciate it if I get some advice on one of our deals. We are purchasing a $600K property in California but the deal fell through because the lender cancel the program during the pandemic. And I also have already signed off all contingencies. The sellers still has not signed for the release of my earnest money. They are on a contingent with another buyer now. I would probably just give them $2000 and consider it the price of education in this instance. If they still won't sign, how should I do? Thank you all.

[Greg H.]

Originally posted by @Kyle Mccaw:

I suspect California is not too different than Texas in that you can bring this issue to the title company. In Texas the title company will release it to you if you have a financing contingency that is covered in the contract.

A title company in Texas is not going to release any earnest money without a release signed by both parties

Here is a good illustration of the process when there is a dispute

https://lonestarlandlaw.com/earnest-money-disputes/