Retainer to keep a place in advance?

[natmarshall]

Hi All

I know that this will have been asked among the Forum already, but if you don't mind letting me know what you (or others) have done in the situation of keeping a place for a child in advance.

I have interest in a position availble from Sept '11. Can/should I ask for a retainer if a parent wants it? If so, what do you think is reasonable to ask for, etc?

Thanks for your help.

Nat

[rickysmiths]

I know NCMA recommend that a Retainer is charged for periods of not longer than 12 weeks. Six months is quite a long time. I would normally take a non-returnable Deposit of 4 weeks fees to secure the place that far in advance. If I charge a retainer, I charge 1/2 fee.

The place must be available for all the time the Retainer is paid, and the parent can use it at any time with reasonable notice.

[onceinabluemoon]

I'd go with the deposit rather than a retainer too. I wouldnt expect a parent to pay half fees until September. x

[The Juggler]

if I had a space now then I would charge a retainer. that's a lot of money to lose if you are looking now hon. I have taken on a September child with a deposit but I don't have a space until September.

[natmarshall]

Thanks for all your advice.

I don't have the space availble until September either. But it will be my only full-time under 5 bringing the money in, as I have 2 under 5's of my own.

Would really like to have someone coming in as the other is leaving.

Thanks

Nat

[miffy]

You can't charge a retainer if there is no space available.

You could ask for a deposit though to secure the place. I usually take one month's fees as deposit - parents sign to say they understand it is non-refundable if they do not take up the place.

Miffy xx