Allowing tenants to move in later in month

[Eric Samuels]

I’m new to house hacking a duplex and this is the second time someone asks me for a late move in. If I allow someone to move in later in the month (target month is nov) Should I still mandate full deposit and first months rent before before the first of the month?

[Nathan Gesner]

Quote from @Eric Samuels:

I’m new to house hacking a duplex and this is the second time someone asks me for a late move in. If I allow someone to move in later in the month (target month is nov) Should I still mandate full deposit and first months rent before before the first of the month?

1. I don't hold a rental without money in hand. They need to pay the Holding Deposit or Security Deposit at the time of approval so I have evidence they are serious. If they cancel, they forfeit the deposit.

2. I don't typically hold a vacant rental for more than 10 days. After that, they have to start paying rent, whether they occupy it or no. If they don't want to rent early, then they have the choice of waiting to see if it's still on the market when they are ready.