Move In Process (Collecting Deposit, Walk through, Etc)

[Account Closed]

Can someone please review the process im taking below and let me know if theres anything to change?

1. Deposit to hold (up to15 days) (1.5x)

2. We agree on lease start date.

3. Tenant performs pre-inspection of the property, reviews lease, disclosures, sign off all rules, and provide copy of ID/Pay Stub/Letter of employment. Both parties sign off lease.

4. On day of key exchange, pay the 1st month rent.

5. If pro-rating, the 2nd or 3rd month would be prorated [not sure which is preferable].

Am I understanding the standard practice correctly?

[Dana Dunford]

@Account Closed -- Quick question -- what do you mean by 1.5x deposit? 

If it's just two days away, then I'd recommend receiving the security deposit, all of February's rent (aka pre-paid rent), and a signed lease right now. 

For utilities, they transfer on the possession day (aka Feb 1st), but the tenant should be able to call and get them put into their name in advance.