I charge a $200 cleaning fee and $100 admin fee, $300 refundable deposit plus rent at move in.

In particular- how was the process when the tenant moved out and there were charges reported against the Security Deposit? 

Though we are still over a month and a half away from our reservation date, we lost our entire deposit.

They also have a dog  which was not reported and no pet deposit was received.

I would require a signed lease from them as well as a security deposit. 

Need proof of insurance, deposit etc. etc.

@James WiseHey, I just want to say I was told in another forum post I am mean and it was irresponsible for telling a potential homebuyer who did not have earnest money deposit that if you don’t have the money for earnest money deposit that should not be buying a houseBecause a 23 year old living with mommy and daddy’s mansion says they buy all the time with no money down….So why you trying to kill their dreams - Lightbulb moment!!!

So just recognize this could be lengthy process if they default.If it was me, I would take it as a non-refundable deposit with a letter of intent and a purchase and sale agreement that the money is a down payment, is not refundable and they must execute the closing by a specific date otherwise they forfeit the money.

Theoretically, I could advertise "no deposit" and charge something like a $500 move in fee, which is non refundable.

Someone I know owns section 8 properties, he doesn’t have any issues and the rent gets deposited directly to his account.