Legally picking applicants

[Joe Aagaard]

I just listed my property and am getting about 1-2 replies a day and have set up three viewings so far.  Thing is it sounds like some tenants might be preferable over others (example one is looking for 2 year lease and sounded qualified).  

Can I take  a handful of applications over the week and cherry pick?  I know the protected class thing but do I have to take them in order or can I tell people I will decide in say 5-10 business days and choose the best?

What is your processes?