If I book over phone months in advance am I charged at that time or at check in

Small upfront costs.

You are charged your 1st nights stay at the time the Reservation is made.

Yes you are changed at that time, but only to secure the room for you. But you can cancel up until 2 or 3 day's. Maybe with a small fee just for holding it up!

Check in you will be charged at $250 fee For damages. But then it is returned to you at checkout.

You are charged a deposit