Create, sign, and download your earnest money agreement, a legal document that binds two parties during the purchase and sale of a property. The earnest money is on a special fund and if one party backs out of the contract without cause the earnest money is forfeited.An earnest money receipt, sometimes called a "deposit receipt," is a legally binding agreement, typically in a real estate transaction. Earnest money is a good faith deposit held in escrow until the closing to ensure the buyer complies with the terms of the contract. Buyers make earnest money deposits to sellers as a sign of their good faith when making a purchase, such as buying a new home. What Is Earnest Money? An Earnest Money Agreement is a great way for a potential buyer or renter of real estate to show that he or she is serious about purchasing or renting. Students will practice filling out a sample contract and will learn how to explain its various provisions to a buyer or seller. Learning Objectives. If you no longer wish to move forward with the purchase, you may also be able to back out of the deal and recover any costs you've incurred.