[TrudyM]

Ok I am getting answers back from a few that have units available that want a third or half non-refundable at time of signing. Isn't that a bit nuts? I mean on a six month rental thats alot. I mean do people really lay out six grand for a deposit?
Some say it is refundable if rerented so if that is so I should maybe look for only booking the high months so I can be sure to get my money back?
How can I be sure the person really owns the place? I hate to send off a huge check only to find out it is a scam. I am sure I read how somewhere here in the past but can't find it in my notes or under search.

Thanks to all the PMs with help. l2ridehd your idea of renting a few months in three areas is probably a good one. I was thinking six months in one to avoid the tax and make my application to rent desireable but you have a good point that multiple locations would give a better overview.