You obviously have a contingency to obtain financing in your contract. With every contingency, there should be a what if clause. For example, what happens if you can not get the financing, even if it is just that you can not get it by a certain date. If your real estate agenrt is not knowledgeable enough to understand this, than ask this agent to have his or her manager or broker handle the situation. Usually, a phone call to the other agent or the other agent's manager or broker can resolve the situation. If that does not work, than sue for the money. This would put a lien of sorts against the property which would preclude the Seller from selling to anyone else.

Normally an earnest money deposit is given back to the buyer as long as they do not back out for no reason. A contract should have included that it was based on contingincies. For example you being able to get a loan. If this was in there you should be able to get your money back. Generally just because a sale did not go through does not mean you lose your cash. Only if you just change your mind with no cause or escape clause.

Anthony.....

You really need to check with the tax accessor on how this works in their county. You may pay the back taxes and still be responsible of any liens or encumbrances on the property. Good luck.