Upfront Payments at urbanest
At urbanest, we believe in being transparent and fair when it comes to payments. We don’t take deposits, as they can create an unnecessary sense of distrust and lead to residents waiting for refunds at the end of their stay.
Below you’ll find details of our upfront payment process for 2025–26 and our new holding fee process for 2026–27.
For 2025–26 Bookers: One Week’s Upfront Rent
For bookings for the 2025–26 academic year, your room is secured with the value of one week’s rent, taken at the time of booking.
The payment is used towards your rent with us, so you never pay more to us than you need to. We also do not charge any booking or administrative fees.
How can I pay my one-week upfront rental payment?
1) Debit/credit card online
The card used must:
Match the Tenant’s name on the Tenancy Agreement
Match the Tenant’s home address on the Tenancy Agreement
2) Direct Credit bank transfer
Select Bank Transfer in your booking to receive our bank details. You can then send the upfront rental amount directly from your bank.
Please note:
Transfers may take a few days to clear.
Your bank may charge a small fee which you may need to top up on arrival.
For 2026–27 Bookers: £300 Holding Fee
From the 2026–27 academic year, we are introducing a £300 holding fee to secure your reservation.
This holding fee is not a deposit.
The £300 will be credited directly to your account and used towards your rent.
There are no booking or administrative fees for securing a room at urbanest.
If you cancel your reservation it will be refunded to you.
How can I pay the £300 holding fee?
You can pay using one of the following methods:
1) Debit/credit card online
We accept most major credit and debit cards. For security and fraud-prevention purposes, the card must:
Match the Tenant’s name exactly as shown on the Tenancy Agreement
Match the Tenant’s home address as stated on the Tenancy Agreement
2) Direct Credit bank transfer
You can select Bank Transfer during your booking. Our bank details will be provided so you can send the £300 directly to us.
Please note:
Transfers may take a few days to reach us.
Your bank may charge a fee — please ensure the full £300 is received.