Yes. There is no rules stating it must be in the lawyer's office .

This post has been edited by mini orchard: Sep 26 2017, 07:35 AM

The 3% + 7% of the purchase price is the norm but NOT the rule. Payment of deposit is negotiable between buyer and seller.

There are pro and con in payment on the quantum of earnest deposit. A lower deposit is not always better and vice versa.

If buying through an agent, the earnest money is paid to the agency office (NOT AGENT PLS) as stakeholder. If is direct purchase, then to the seller (Have it signed on paper and be witnessed by a third party).

Upon signing SNP, the lawyer will ask you to make the balance 7% payment to the seller.

Finally, before engaging your lawyer, instruct him firmly that he is NOT to 'act' for the seller even though he will tell you it is easy and faster for paper work to be done. A good lawyer will get it done for you and also to safeguard your purchase interest. You will appreciate it when the deal gets complicated .... and you never know. It may be your first property and you want a good memory of the purchase.