hotel reservation cancel/deposit

[unicorn]

I want to reserve a room soon, but I still do not know if FOR SURE we are going.  I also do not have the total sum of money currently (but will very soon), so I am hoping I will only pay once I check in, and not online. Anyway, I was wondering:
- As far as the deposit goes, how big is the deposit usually? (estimate) and do they finally take the deposit in April?
-Also, MUST you have the full amount of the deposit BEFORE they take it?
-And lastly, if I end up not needing the reservation any longer due to someone flaking out--- MUST I pay the full amount,  along with the deposit? Or do I get a refund?
It would be AMAZING if anyone could help me out, it is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

[M]

I want to reserve a room soon, but I still do not know if FOR SURE we are going.  I also do not have the total sum of money currently (but will very soon), so I am hoping I will only pay once I check in, and not online. Anyway, I was wondering:
- As far as the deposit goes, how big is the deposit usually? (estimate) and do they finally take the deposit in April?
-Also, MUST you have the full amount of the deposit BEFORE they take it?

From the FAQ: If you use your debit card at check-in, the hotel will take an authorization for the amount of room and tax plus an applicable deposit for your entire stay. When the authorization is taken, funds will be debited from your account immediately. If this will cause an inconvenience to you, it is recommended that you use a credit card or cash at check-in.
Debit or credit card used at the time of reservation may be charged a deposit of one night's room and tax as early as May 18, 2011.

-And lastly, if I end up not needing the reservation any longer due to someone flaking out--- MUST I pay the full amount,  along with the deposit? Or do I get a refund?

Cancellation Deadline: A penalty of 1 night's room and tax will apply if reservations are not cancelled on or before April 29, 2011

It would be AMAZING if anyone could help me out, it is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Please view the reservation page for more information, considering that it took 45m for you to get a response. :P

[Kyra_Maverick]

Basically you don't pay anything when you reserve your room online. They ask for your card information as a way to make sure you're serious about your reservation. If you cancel after the 'safe cancel date' of April 29 that card will be charged a cancellation fee. Also, if you completely flake out by not canceling the room and not showing up, your card will be charged.

Deposit policy seems to be 1 nights stay. If you put the room on a debit card, it will work just like MPLe said. If you put it on an actual credit card, the deposit will just be held, but not actually charged unless you trash your room. It seem the hotel might charge your deposit before check in this year. It seems unlikely that you will actually be charged that early, but make sure you've got enough just in case.

If you still have questions about how this all works feel free to call your hotel. The staff there should know exactly how everything works.