What should a broker do with deposit funds if sellers suggest the money be kept for future purchases?

When sellers suggest that deposit funds be kept for future purchases, the broker's appropriate action is to return the funds to the purchasers. This is because the deposit is typically meant to secure a particular transaction and should only be retained if there is an ongoing agreement to proceed with that transaction. If the sellers no longer wish to proceed or if the funds are not required for a specific purpose agreed upon by both parties, returning the deposit respects the purchasers' rights and ensures ethical handling of clients' money.

The other options involve actions that could be considered improper or unethical. Investing the deposit in real estate or using it for broker fees would not align with the obligations brokers have to act in the best interests of their clients, as deposits must be handled transparently and strictly according to the purpose for which they were collected. Additionally, holding the funds indefinitely without clear instruction from both parties could lead to misunderstandings or disputes regarding the money. Thus, returning the funds is the correct and responsible action.