What does South Dakota law say about the custody of earnest money deposits?

South Dakota law mandates that earnest money deposits are to be placed in a designated escrow account. This requirement ensures that the funds are handled securely and transparently, maintaining the integrity and trust of the transaction between buyers and sellers. By using a designated escrow account, the funds are held by a neutral third party until the terms of the real estate agreement are fulfilled. This practice protects both parties involved, as it helps to prevent potential disputes over the funds and ensures compliance with state regulations regarding the handling of trust money.

Moreover, keeping the earnest money in an escrow account is a standard practice in real estate transactions to ensure that the funds are available for the intended purpose, such as applying toward the purchase price of the property or covering any agreed-upon fees. This legal framework helps maintain orderly and fair transactions within the real estate market in South Dakota.