Let the sellers know you are serious about buying their home. The purpose of good faith deposit or earnest money is to protect sellers from a buyer who makes several offers on homes. It is usually between 1 and 3 per cent of the purchase price. From the buyer’s perspective, it makes the seller perceive you are serious about buying. Hence, you should not back out of the agreement for no good reason. In case you do, you will lose your earnest money.
However, when the seller turned down your offer, you will receive your earnest money back. And, if your offer is accepted, that deposit goes towards the purchase price of the property.
Ensure you clearly state all these terms & conditions in the purchase agreement.