Which type of funds is NOT considered escrow monies?

Escrow funds refer to money held by a third party on behalf of the transacting parties, typically involved in real estate transactions. Earnest money, down payments, and inspection fees are all examples of funds that can be held in escrow.

Earnest money is a deposit made to demonstrate a buyer's serious intent to purchase a property. It is held in escrow until closing, at which point it may be applied toward the purchase price. The down payment is the portion of the purchase price paid up front and can also be deposited in escrow until the transaction is finalized.

Inspection fees are often paid by the buyer prior to closing for the services of an inspector to evaluate the property. These fees can similarly be held in escrow until the completion of the transaction.

Personal bonds, on the other hand, do not represent actual monetary transactions related to real estate dealings and are not held in escrow in the same manner as the other types of funds. They are more associated with legal pledges rather than funds meant for transaction processes. Thus, personal bonds stand apart from escrow monies.