I would NEVER hold a spot for a family whose child I have yet to meet. Photos are one thing (as a photographer for my side job I know how cute and sweet they look in photos and I also know the hell they put me through to get said photo lol). Always go with your gut. The not being able to afford is a red flag for me now too. If you start off bending your rules, they may take advantage of this and bend even more rules. Not saying for sure they will, but I'm always hesitant when I hear 'can't afford' before care even starts. Just my 2 cents