How to make a Earnest Money Deposit? Who should be there?

Why don't you have an agent? The commission will be paid by the seller if you are buying a home that has a cooperation agreement with other brokers. The questions you are asking would pertain to a for sale by owner home. If this home is listed by an agency, call a different agency. A good agent will answer all your question and walk you through the process. Always write a check or wire the money for escrow deposit. The contract will define the cirstances in which the escrow money will be forfeited. You need these and other questions answered in order to make informed decisions. You are right, not all realtors are like that. But those few give the others a bad name. One last question. If you were tried in court, would you hire the other parties lawyer? then why hire the seller's agent to buy a home.