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The Earnest Money Agreement (Anzahlungsvereinbarung) is a crucial document in German transaction practice, particularly in real estate and significant commercial deals. It serves as a security instrument where a buyer demonstrates their serious intention to complete a transaction by providing a deposit. The agreement is structured according to German legal requirements, particularly the German Civil Code (BGB), and typically precedes or accompanies the main transaction document. It must address specific legal requirements for money handling, potential notarization if related to real estate, and clear conditions for both release and forfeiture of the earnest money. The document is especially important in the German market where formal documentation of such security deposits is essential for transaction certainty.

1. Parties: Identification and details of all parties to the agreement, including full legal names, addresses, and registration details if applicable

2. Background: Context of the agreement, including reference to the main transaction (e.g., property purchase) that this earnest money agreement supports

3. Definitions: Key terms used throughout the agreement, including 'Earnest Money', 'Main Agreement', 'Completion Date', etc.

4. Earnest Money Amount: Specification of the earnest money amount and currency

5. Payment Terms: Timeline and method for payment of the earnest money, including bank account details and deadline

6. Escrow Arrangements: Details of how the earnest money will be held, including escrow agent details if applicable

7. Conditions for Release: Circumstances under which the earnest money will be released to either party

8. Default and Remedies: Consequences of default by either party and available remedies

9. Relationship to Main Agreement: How this agreement relates to and interacts with the main transaction agreement

10. Governing Law and Jurisdiction: Confirmation of German law application and jurisdiction for disputes