Choosing between multiple tenants

[Matt Anderson]

I have multiple (2) applicants who meet my minimum criteria - they actually both exceed them by a lot. All other background check items also look good, as well as references (so far, one or two more people I need to connect with).

One has a pet, one does not. I've indicated in listing that pets would be considered case-by-case. Can this be my decision point without getting into trouble?

Can I ask if either is willing to a). pay more, or b). sign a longer lease? Or, given the above, do I need to go with the first submitted application (once reference checks are complete)?