The internet is littered with holding deposit problems. The issues vary from scammers stealing intended holding deposits to property managers mishandling the follow through. Here are some common problems that popup and should be avoided / managed: A scammer creates a fake listing and asks for a holding deposit upfront. A property manager asks for a holding deposit in cash. A property manager asks for a holding deposit without an agreement. A property manager asks for a holding deposit before sharing the lease. A property manager asks for a holding deposit while terms are being negotiated.