Get a full receipt for all money transactions! While your cancelled check will suffice in most cases, it's best to match it up with an itemized accounting of how the money is being used, e.g. security deposit, first and last, etc. Read Everything. Do not sign a lease or any written agreement until you have read everything, including the fine print. Make sure you fully understand all of the provisions. If you have read the lease and you are unclear about something, or you just don't think everything sounds quite right, or you just want to be reassured that everything proper has been covered, call the Community Housing Office for referrals. Holding Or Reservation Deposits. Often, when the tenant is unsure about renting a unit and wants some time to think about it, or to consult with parents, spouse, or friends, the landlord may suggest some money down to "hold" the unit for a short time. This is a "reservation deposit" and can be very useful to both parties. But, be sure and get a receipt, use the Deposit Receipt found in the appendix, that states the amount paid and whether it will be applied toward the first month's rent or the security deposit, how much per day will be charged if you decide not to rent the unit, and exactly when and under what conditions the balance will be refunded. If you decide not to take the unit, the landlord should not automatically keep the whole deposit; he must take reasonable measures to re-rent the place. When the landlord re-rents it, he must give you back the remainder of your deposit that was not used to cover his damages. In no case may the landlord be collecting double rent. But, in reality, it may be very difficult to get the holding deposit back if you change your mind about moving in. Therefore, be very sure that you want the place before you put any money down. Application And Credit Check Fees. Landlords sometimes charge a nominal fee ($20-$50) for processing applications, drafting leases, and to check your credit references. This is considered reasonable if the fee is actually used to cover the cost. If the landlord asks for higher amounts, you may want to question him about your chances of really getting the place. Exorbitant fees might be a ploy to increase the landlord's income.