Bad consequences from flaking out?

[AgentEL]

Well, I agreed to rent a place starting January 1, 2005.

But, now, I'm starting to have second thoughts. I haven't signed anything. But, I have given a deposit to the manager ($350). I was never told that the deposit was non-refundable.

I feel bad because it's so close to January 2005 that it'll be pretty hard to fill the vacancy by then. If I were to pull out of the agreement, what do you think are the possible consequences? Can they keep the $350?

 

[SynthDude2001]

With the preface that I have absolutely no experience with renting situations - I'd imagine that since you haven't signed anything, you should be fine. I would think you should get the deposit back too, but I don't really know the terms of this informal agreement that you're talking about.

I could of course be completely wrong though.

 

[AgentEL]

bump

 

[Drakkon]

check any paperwork....if u gave over $350 without singing ANYTHING don't expect to see that $350 back ever again unless:
1) You have a canceled check with DEPOSIT written on it and can come up with a REALLY good excuse as to why u think u deserve a deposit back
2) They have yet to cash the check and so you can put a stop payment on the check

usually when u get a deposit its to hold the property for you....you get it back only after your contract with them has been fulfilled. If you don't take the place you end up forfeiting the deposit as it is considered the time and money that will have to be used to make up for the time spent dealing with your renegging ass.

 

[Ornery]

Do you have some kind of proof you gave him $350.00? What does it say on that document?

 

[AgentEL]

Just a check for $350. I didn't sign any papers. It was to hold the place for us until we came up with the rest of the rent/deposit.

 

[Drakkon]

why would you give someone $350 without any sort of paperwork?

I got this bridge i can sell ya or some prime land in florida...

 

[Ornery]

It was to hold the place for us...

Guess what? He didn't look for any more renters because he was "holding the place for you". I can't imagine how you'd get that money back, short of you finding a suitable tenant for him real quick.

 

[Banana]

Say goodbye to undocumented gift of $350

Did you even write a memo on the check, such as DEPOSIT?