Out of State Renters - when to sign lease

[Erin Krohn]

First, this is the first time I'm renting out my house.  

I have out of state renters that I've screened and accepted.   Ideally, I thought we would walk through the house prior to move in, document the state of the house, then sign the lease.  However, they will not be here until move in day, and having read through the forums I'm realizing I need to get the lease signed and get their security depost/first months rent before then.  The lease I have is electronic, so they could sign it electronically before December 1.   

What is your workflow for lease signing?  Should I ask them to sign ahead of time, then we can walk through the house on move in day and document anything necessary?