College Renting Timing and Winter Renting Tips

[Ryan King]

About a week ago I listed my duplex for rent available immediately. The only inquires I've had are from college students wanting to rent it next May/June. I'm in a college area and my goal is to do a short-term lease until that timeframe and get college students in, so this is a good sign but I also want to get some income until then. This leads me to two questions:

1) Can I have them apply and sign a lease this early to start in May/June? Should I offer to give it to who ever gives me a deposit and passes my application first right now or is it way too soon? If not, when do I say I'll be accepting them and how to I handle who gets it if they're both qualified?

2) Anyone have tips for finding renters in the winter months? And finding renters for short-term leases without getting into a sketchy situation?

Thanks!