Tenant provides deposit to hold unit. Backs out. Advice?

[Bobby Walters]

A question for you veteran landlords....

I have a very nice condo that is highly sought after by prospective tenants. I had someone who wanted the unit, and called me stating that he wanted to lease it, and would bring me a check to "hold the unit for him". He gave me a $1000 check to hold it --- this is the amount of the security deposit. He also completed an application and background screening, which was accepted by me and such was communicated to him via email.

However, prior to signing the lease agreement, he backs out on the deal. Because I held the unit for him, I have time lost and potential rent lost on account of his reversal.

Do I have any recourse to keep all or a portion of the security deposit as consideration for the time and lost rent due to him backing out?