Is it a bird in the hand or two in the bush?

[Georgee Gilbert]

Which is the better  candidate? 

I have a applicant who is offering to pay one year up front in cash for rent. She is getting a divorce and she doesn't have a job. Her roommate to be is getting a divorce as well and doesn't meet the income requirement (shy by $600). She has been on her job for over 20 yrs and her credit score is over 700. They only want to sign a 18 month lease. 

Then I have a couple who want to rent for at lease 3 years maybe more. The boyfriend works two jobs. His 2nd job take him a little over the income requirement. He is recently divorced so his credit is in the low $600s and his girlfriend works as well.

[Jerry W.]

@Georgee Gilbert, I would see what the past landlords said about them and their references.  If you are undecided based on income maybe that will help.  It is hard to give advice without meeting either of them.  Either way it is nice to have choices.  Good luck.