rental open house protocol

[Kristi Beeksma]

we listed our first SF rental on Sunday and received over 30 inquiries so far.  I followed up with an email or phone coversation listing the criteria we posted in our ads.  Amazing how many people didn't read the full ad....We have 6-8 qualified prospective tenants interested in seeing the house, based on the pre-screen.  I started scheduling appointments and we have now decided to host an open house on Saturday.   I've contacted all of these prospects to attend within the window and planning on using cozy for the application and background check/credit reports.  At the open house, should I give them the link to the cozy listing to apply online?    Should I give them a deadline - i.e 'we will be reviewing applications on Sunday'.  Are we able to make our decision based on the strongest applicant, or do we need to offer the next step to the first qualified applicant who applies?  Secondly, when should we collect a deposit?  thank you!