Yes, you are making a mistake.  No money? No hold.  I require payment of 50% of total fee to hold, with a stiff cancelation policy and fullpaymnet must be received 30 days prior to thier date of arrival, PLUS a completed application and copies of all credit cards and a photo ID.

I NEVER give out my exact address, let alone let anyone onto my property until final payment has cleared my bank. There are a lot of scammers out there!!! Be careful!!!

I agree with the first two replies. I have had people who say they are sending out a deposit and in that case I do say I will "hold" it until their deposit arrives FOR 5 DAYS ONLY. We don't take credit cards so this works for us. I will hold dates for the next season for return guests, but they are VERY reliable. I wish you much success with your house!

Generally speaking, I take the attitude that one either wants the house or not.  If they want it, I place a one-week hold onthe property and immediately send them a contract and invoice.  I need to receive the signed contract and 50% of the rental fee plus the full $500 security deposit within the week or I release the hold.  I tend to find that those who wish time to 'consider' the rental don't take it.  Of course, we provide eight pictures plus a link to our website to see even more pictures, and provide lots of info, both on the VRBO listing, our website, and in our email communications with prospects and guests.

One other point, if their arrival date is within 60 days, get the full payment up front.  Nothing like a bad check to muck up a rental experience on thelandlord's part, IMHO....

Good luck w/your rental!

Jim Van

Avondale Properties

http://www.avondaleri.com

We allow our guests 48 hours hold pending receipt of their deposit. We will only put a hold on the house if they say they ARE sending the money. Otherwise, we tell them to let us know when they are ready. If the home is still available, would be happy to rent to them.

I will hold the property 48 hours if they scan a copy of the signed contract and their check and e-mail to me. I won't hold it unless I have those and they tell me when it has been mailed. I encourage them to overnight the check if they want to secure the booking. I don't block the week on my listings until I have the check in my hand.

I do not hold without payment and put language in my response to inquiries that due to the number of inquiries that bookings are not confirmed without payment of deposit and signed agreement.  I allow the guest to pay the deposit by electronic check or credit card, with the balance due 45 days prior to arrival by electronic check or mailing a check.  Usually letting the guest know that i can't hold dates encourages them to book and pay so as not to loose the dates they want.