Video Summary
The short answer is that whether or not your deposit is refundable depends on the terms of the contract. Hopefully your contract was prepared by a realtor or attorney.
Often real estate contracts contain terms stating under which conditions the deposit can be refunded. One such condition is called a “financing contingency” and allows for refund of the deposit is the potential buyer is unable to secure financing and provides appropriate documentation. A condition may also state that depends on the inspection of the property or in case of damage, a deposit may be refunded.
Additionally, condominium purchases may contain a different set of rules regarding the deposit. A contract to buy a condo may allow for the potential buyer to cancel the contract with a refund upon receipt of the documents pertaining to the condominium association.