What must occur to trust funds if the transaction associated with them is delayed?

The correct answer is that trust funds must remain with the party who submitted them. In real estate transactions, trust funds—such as earnest money or other deposits—are held in trust and are meant to ensure that the funds are secure until the transaction is finalized. If a transaction is delayed for any reason, the integrity and security of the funds must be maintained.

Keeping the funds with the submitting party ensures that the funds are not misused or incorrectly released during the delay. The funds must remain in the designated trust account or with the responsible party until the terms of the transaction are resolved or the deal is completed, providing a clear and accountable handling process for the money involved in the real estate transaction.

Other options suggest alternative actions for the trust funds, which do not comply with standard practices. Using the funds for business operations or investing them would violate the principles of fiduciary responsibility. Returning the funds to the lender would also be inappropriate, as the funds are typically meant for the buyer or seller involved in the transaction, not the lender.