Which applicant should I rent to (bankruptcy vs illegals)?

[Ling S.]

I am renting my newly purchased sfh and really need your advise on picking the tenant. Both is ready to move in this Saturday oct 1.
Applicant #1: the couple with 2 kids and a dog. Combined income is 2x monthly rent. Great references. Seems really nice people. However, one of them is illegal immigrant. They are going to commute over 1 hour to work after moving in. So i am afraid that they may only stay for 1 year and move back.
Applicant #2: high income. Both working, 3 years, 10 years at the job. Couple with 2 older kids. One filled chapter 13 bankruptcy 2 years ago because of 2 years unemployment. The Other filled bankruptcy 1 year ago helping out the spouse. They rent the same apartment for last 7 years. Likely will be long term tenant.

Or maybe wait for one more month to find better tenant.

Please help me make a decision.

[James Vermillion]

Neither. In my opinion an honest analysis of both candidates points to finding somebody else. While the idea of getting the vacancy filled is very nice, the potential problems you will encounter could make your life very difficult. I would have to pass on both potential tenants and hold out for someone that meets all requirements (the loss of rent may hurt short term, but the benefits of a great tenant will pay long term). In my opinion, keep looking and you will find the right tenant.