Tenant Screening- Tenant Offering 7 months in advance

[Brian Camey]

So I just moved out of my first house hack and want to finally cashflow on this duplex. While screening potential tenants (and there are a lot) none really stand out as GREAT potential tenants. I have come to realize that credit scores for tenants are not going to be great. I am making this post because I wanted some advice. 

A tenant offered 7 months of rent in advance (at 1500 a month), I'm guessing to overcompensate for a poor credit score AND a misdemeanor on her criminal record (I have not run the background check so I don't know the nature of the charge yet). I am thinking of offering a 7 month lease and go month to month. What do yall think  

[Patricia Steiner]

I wouldn't do it.  She's either qualified or she's not.  And, consider how someone who has a poor credit rating and a conviction could acquire 7 months worth of rent...was it acquired legally or will you be renting to someone who is setting up shop in your property.  This is a common practice with those selling drugs.  To be a complete kill-joy on your Monday, also know that some states require you pay interest if the amount prepaid exceeds a certain term (six months) and the landlord is responsible for the accounting (it isn't your money until it is earned monthly).  Also consider what happens at the end of the lease:  will you be willing to renew to her if she doesn't prepay again?

My recommendation is to stick to your selection criteria.  If it seems too good to be true...