Full deposit IN CASH if they want me to hold the rental (pending application, pending receipt of rent, etc). Full deposit and full rent IN CASH before we sign the lease and before they get the keys. If the dollar keeps falling apart, I might change that and only except gold or pre-1965 silver coins (half kidding).
I like to get the deposit as soon as I get the rental application, or am in verbal agreement with the potential renter. At first this can just be a small, refundable deposit (like $100) so the potential renter can secure the deal pending the approval of the application. This commits the potential tenant to the property and will make sure they end the shopping right then and there. Collect all the rest of the money due, and first months payment, on the day the sign the lease or at least prior to them moving in.
Small deposit due to hold when completing the application.
Security deposit and first months rent due when we sign the lease agreement. They get the keys when I have verified all utilities have been turned over in their name and when lease starts.
Full deposit IN CASH if they want me to hold the rental (pending application, pending receipt of rent, etc). Full deposit and full rent IN CASH before we sign the lease and before they get the keys. If the dollar keeps falling apart, I might change that and only except gold or pre-1965 silver coins (half kidding).