First Rental, Need Help W/ Prospective Tenants!

[Jason Williams]

We listed our property and have starting screening tenants. This is our first rental (actually our home being put up for rent), and are a bit nervous to ensure we select the right individuals. We had a great response from a craigslist ad, showed it to 5 prospects today and have an additional showing or two for tomorrow. We did mention requirements of 3x rent for an income base, credit and background check, and follow-up with references. Three people expressed immediate interest. We also read the base tenant screening informational guide, but are finding meeting in person to be a little less clear as to what direction to go! Help with the following will be appreciated!!

1) Should we tell multiple tenants that verbally claimed to meet the criteria to apply at the same time? If so and they both qualify, do we refund the application fee (plan on using smart move and having the tenant pay for smart move check)? What are your best methods for picking between two or more qualifications? If they both meet the base criteria, how do we tell the other individual they did get accepted? Woah lot of questions there!

At a high level somebody with a solid job record and credit history with 5 animals (two dogs, two large fish tanks, one lizard) or someone who is very professional and thorough but has had a recent divorce and bankruptcy (would also bring a dog, and two college age working children),  but since bankruptcy appears to have a solid rental history (and mentioned prepaying early)...

Thank you!!!