I’m new to renting (in the process of divorcing) and I have placed a holding deposit thinking that would secure the property as I have missed out on a few properties recently and need to move asap.
I can provide references, bank statements etc I have even sent a message stating this but it’s not been read, it looks like the holding deposit will be refunded as 96 hours are nearly up.
From a landlord point of view, is a holding deposit a red flag?
Don’t place a holding deposit without first agreeing it with landlord, and after having viewed the property.
This part of openrent gets on everyone’s nerves.
Ahh, I didn’t know that! Thank you. I wish it said somewhere on OpenRent about it. I just presumed it was a case of whoever put the holding deposit was serious enough.
nope… legally, a LL can’t advertise a property when a holding dep is placed. So if you unilterally place one, it takes the property off the market for the LL and that will def not do you any favours. Once you’re in conversation with a LL, ask if you can place one and if so, go for it.
This is not how it works on OR. The property will only be taken off the market when the Landlord accepts the holding deposit. If they decline it, or don’t reply for long enough, it will refund to the payer automatically.
ah right… thanks for clarifying. Wasn’t aware of that.
So, why exactly does this “get on everyone’s nerves” then? What are you all complaining about?
Well, the deposit was “refunded” the house is showing as off the market on Rightmove and the landlord still hasn’t read my messages!
It seems renting is like dating in modern times!! 
swipe left… plenty more landlords in the sea
It is a little bit of a red flag if you haven’t agreed it with the landlord before placing it. Shows a lack of communication skills which is never a good start.
Think about it this way- would you put down a sum for any other good or service to try to secure it without discussing and agreeing with the seller first?
Appears Landlord has accepted a holding deposit from another person, which took ad off, is in progress, and if it fails Landlord may then get back to you. Unlikely.
As you have not contacted landlord, maybe he has not felt the need to contact you either. I would, but …Be aware that all interactions add to a pattern helping Landlord to choose a tenant.
I pick those who communicate easily, fully, politely and swiftly. Keep applying, learn what works best and hopefully you are successful soon.