Possible small claims suit

[Sean Gallagher]

(Sorry if in wrong forum, on my phone, please move if needed)

It's funny that I'm a landlord and I've found myself on the other side in a pretty irritating dispute with an upnrofessional individual who is also a LL. 

It's pretty simple, his listing was bone dry, a picture showed the home with a garage, room for rent 875. Nothing in regards to a lease term, application fee or security deposit.  

So I sent an email detailing everything I was looking for, strictly looking to rent on a month to month basis and need a garage. 

He says send me your number so we can chat, I again tell him what I'm looking for, we arrange to meet that day.  I arrive with cash in hand to lock in the deal if needed.   Shows me the property it's ok, would work for what I need.  No issues, he says to hold it I will need 300, i explain I only have 200, he takes it and I get a reciept titled holding place.  

He says he'll send me an application and if all is good the lease.  We get through the whole application and then when it comes time for lease he says he needs a 3 month minimum. 

I feel like this is completely unfair. Im working with craiglist to try and get the ad which expired.  All of this happened in 3 days, the room wasn't even vacant during this term.  He's trying to pocket half of my $.  It's the principle,  I'm looking to get professional opinions.  Am I at fault here.