What Is Earnest Money and How Does It Work in New Hampshire?

🏡 What Is Earnest Money and How Does It Work in New Hampshire?

When you make an offer on a home in New Hampshire, you’ll usually include earnest money — a small deposit that shows the seller you’re serious.

In the Central NH market (Plymouth, Campton, Thornton, Rumney, Bristol, and surrounding towns), earnest money is typically $1,000–$5,000, or about 1%–2% of the purchase price.

Here’s how it works.

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What Is Earnest Money?

Earnest money is a good-faith deposit held by the seller’s brokerage or title company until closing.

It is NOT an extra fee — it is credited back to you at closing.

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When Do You Pay Earnest Money in NH?

Usually within 3 business days of the offer being accepted.

Some sellers may require it sooner, especially in competitive markets.

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Can You Get Earnest Money Back?

Yes — you can get it back if you use the standard NH contingencies:

Inspection contingency

Appraisal contingency

Financing contingency

Title contingency

If the deal falls through for a protected reason, your deposit is returned.

If you walk away for a non-covered reason, the seller may keep it.

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How Much Should You Put Down?

Typical amounts in NH:

$1,000 for homes under $200k

$2,500–$5,000 for $300k–$500k homes

1%–2% for competitive situations

Higher earnest money can strengthen your offer.

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Q&A

Q: What is earnest money in NH?

A: It’s a good-faith deposit (usually 1%–2%) that shows you’re serious about buying.

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Keywords

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About the Author

🏡 What Is a Septic Pumping Schedule and How Often Should NH Homeowners Pump?

For many homes in Plymouth, Campton, Rumney, Thornton, and rural parts of Central NH, septic systems are the norm — not the exception.

Keeping your septic system healthy starts with a regular pumping schedule.

Here’s how often NH homeowners should pump and why it matters.

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How Often Should a Septic Tank Be Pumped in NH?

Most New Hampshire homes should pump their septic tank every:

✔ 2–3 years for average households

✔ Every year for large families or heavy water usage

✔ Every 4–5 years for seasonal/low-use properties

Tank size, number of occupants, and water usage heavily affect the schedule.

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What Happens If You Don’t Pump Frequently Enough?

Delaying septic pumping can lead to:

⚠ Backups into the home

⚠ Drainfield failure

⚠ Slow drains and gurgling

⚠ Expensive repairs ($10,000–$25,000+)

NH homes with high water tables or older systems are especially vulnerable.

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What Affects Septic Pumping Frequency?

In Central NH, factors include:

✔ Number of people in the home

✔ Tank size

✔ Age of the system

✔ Garbage disposal use

✔ Well water vs. city water (well water often increases sediment)

✔ Soil conditions and drainage

If you don’t know the last pump date, assume it’s overdue.

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Signs Your Septic Tank Needs Pumping

Watch for:

⚠ Standing water near the tank or drainfield

⚠ Slow sinks or showers

⚠ Foul smells outdoors

⚠ Toilets bubbling when running water

⚠ Lush green grass over the drainfield

These warning signs can indicate the system is nearing failure.

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Q&A

Q: Can NH buyers request septic pumping before closing?

A: Yes — many buyers negotiate pumping or inspection during the due diligence period.

Q: Does pumping fix all septic issues?

A: No. Pumping maintains the tank, but drainfield issues often require separate repairs.

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Keywords

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Jim Johnson — Real Estate Agent

58 NH Route 25A

Wentworth, NH 03282

P: (857) 249-7392

W: www.JimJohnsonRealEstateAgent.com

Licensed New Hampshire REALTOR® with Three Hills Real Estate Services

Broker Email: info@ThreeHillsRES.com

Broker Website: www.ThreeHillsRES.com