As a seller who had a deal go sideways I would not take a deposit of more than 7,000.
It's not because I am generous or a fool. It's because the distribution of a deposit, (typically held by a title company), if in dispute can be decided in small claims.
I bet you thought a title company would sort this out and you would be wrong. The title company will not nor will they do anything at all to help or guide you through this process. For this aspect of the transaction the title company exists only to enrich themselves through fees.
For the seller and buyer's protection, keep this in the realm of the small claims court which will not cost you significant legal fees
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