Lafayette, LA Renter Offering Six Months Rent In Advance

[Suzette T.]

We have a prospective tenant looking to move-in shortly. We are in the application process and they are asking to rent for and pay for six months upfront. Any one know if this is ok to do in Lafayette, Louisiana?  Pros and cons?

[Bjorn Ahlblad]

@Suzette T. applicants who are in a hurry and willing to pay 6-12 months up front are generally up to no good. Don't let the money distract you from proper screening. Treat them just like you would anybody else. If you wind up accepting them get a certified check prior to move in. In my case we always get first and last and a security deposit equal to one month's rent. So six months is really only three. Be extra thorough with folks offering money up front. All the best!