Renting to a divorce filed applicant ? Is it safe?

[Kali V.]

Hi there-

I am in the process of listing my new purchase (townhome) for leasing in VA, and I have an applicant who is willing to rent with good financials but recently filed for divorce. He owns a single family house now and planning to sell it once he leases the house. He mentioned the reason for leasing is primarily 1) downsizing , and 2) don't want to live in the marital property. He has a son and mom live with him. Do you think I can rent him if he checks out screening process ?

I wonder why he choose to move/lease when he already owns a house and add additional expense until he sells ? I thought may be, he was asked to leave his home, but the county records show that the house he owns deed is recorded on both wife and husband name. I am not sure what can i ask him to get more details here and make sure i am doing this correctly.

Please advise.

Thank you

Prasad