Too late to accept another tenant?

[Tommy Wang]

Hi,

First time landlord here, so be gentle.

I have completed the application processes with a tenant that is simply marginal. They had a previous broken lease with collections filed against them by a prior landlord. They were upfront about it, and have agreed to a double-deposit.

I have verbally implied that I have accepted them. (ie: "Things look good, when do you want to move in?")

At the last minute, I have received another applicant that is much better qualified.

At this point, is it too late to legally reject the first applicant? If so, do I simply tell them that I have received a tenant with a better credit situation?

Thanks,
TW

[Rob K.]

I tell people that I'm not holding anything without a deposit. If I tell someone I will rent to them and they give me money to hold the house, that's a done deal. I don't hold anything for free.

When you told them, "Things look good, when do you want to move in?", you should have followed up with I need $1,000 to hold the house, how soon can you meet me with the money?"