Breaking Lease Agreement Before it Begins

[Patrick Farley]

I have a tenant that signed a 2 year lease agreement with me, but has not sent requested security deposit, first or last months rent as stated.  I opened my listing back up and have another verified tenant that I would prefer.  Am I under any obligation to the first signee given the individual has not sent requisite deposits?

[Jeff Fountain]

Patrick, I have in my leases that the first month's rent payment, as well as the deposit, is due at time of signing the lease. Review the wording in your lease. Send her money back and go with who you think will be a better fit. For the future, I recommend standing firm on the first month's rent and deposit at time of signing. I painstakingly went through this just recently and learned a big lesson. Be nice, but stick to business. First come, with everything, first serve! What you are experiencing is a microcosm of what is coming down the road. The folks I were "NICE" to delayed and delayed. I was given the deposit but then they dragged their feet with the first month's rent but still prior to move in.I finally received it but had made the decision they would not get keys/code until I had it all.  Fast forward....Later, when I sent a plumber at their request over a minor issue, they forgot about the appointment. Learn from my mistakes. Her actions are speaking volumes.