Hi there,

A friend and I were looking to move in the new year. We found a place at the end of November we liked, but said we couldn't move until 2nd January. So the estate agent said for us to give him the first months rent (paid end of Nov) to stop others viewing the property and to pay the security deposit/bond on the day we moved.

Since then, my mums other house has come up for rent, considerably cheaper and considerably bigger, and we have decided to move there instead. Where do we stand claiming back any money from the estate agents? I don't think we stand much chance lol, but it would be nice if we could get it back! We also paid for references but I know we won't get that back lol!

Thanks for any help anyone can give

Just to add, we haven't signed anything at all.

I think you'll just have to write it off. You have effectively paid for it for December, and most of December has gone, so there is no chance they can get someone else in. Let them know as soon as possible that you no longer want the flat, they might be able to claim you have a verbal contract to rent it, especially as money has changed hands.

Absolutely nowhere, I reckon.

While you may not of signed anything, this is effectively a deposit. Which is there for the security of both sides - you pay to secure your place, they get some money as your committment.

Basically, no harm in asking, but if they say no, I wouldn't make a fuss.

Yup pretty much what we thought, just double checking Cheers people!

Unfortunetely I don't think you'll beable to get anything back. Estate Agents are a funny breed, lol !

MY partner and I have been dealing with them for a while, thankfully we move into our new house on Monday