The North Dakota Escrow Agreement for Residential Sale is a legally binding contract that establishes the terms and conditions for the secure handling of funds, documents, and assets during the sale of a residential property in North Dakota. This agreement serves as a safeguard for both the buyer and seller, ensuring a transparent and equitable transaction process. In this agreement, the escrow agent is usually a neutral third party, such as a title company or an attorney, responsible for facilitating the escrow process. They hold the agreed-upon funds and documents in a designated escrow account until all conditions of the sale are met. There are various types of North Dakota Escrow Agreements for Residential Sale, tailored to specific situations and contingencies. Some common types include: 1. Standard Residential Sale Escrow Agreement: This is the most commonly used agreement, covering the basic elements of the sale transaction, including the purchase price, earnest money deposit, closing date, and any contingencies such as inspections or financing. 2. Short Sale Escrow Agreement: In case the seller is experiencing financial difficulty and owes more on the property than its current market value, a short sale escrow agreement is employed. This type of agreement typically involves additional requirements, such as approval from the lender and potential negotiation of remaining debt. 3. For Sale by Owner (FBO) Escrow Agreement: When the property is being sold directly by the owner without the involvement of a real estate agent, an FBO escrow agreement may be used. This agreement addresses the unique circumstances of such a sale, including the absence of commission fees and limited professional assistance. 4. New Construction Escrow Agreement: Designed for new residential construction projects, this agreement takes into account the specific requirements involved in the sale of a property that is yet to be built or completed. It may include provisions for inspections, payment schedules, and the release of funds at different construction milestones. 5. Contingency Escrow Agreement: This type of agreement applies when the sale is dependent on meeting certain conditions or contingencies. Examples include the need for repairs, obtaining financing, or a satisfactory home inspection. The agreement outlines the actions and timeline required to fulfill these conditions. It is essential for both buyers and sellers to carefully review and fully understand the terms of the North Dakota Escrow Agreement for Residential Sale before entering into a real estate transaction. Consulting with a qualified real estate attorney or agent can ensure that the agreement adequately protects the interests of all parties involved.