Signed contract as proof of income

[Eric Jones]

I have a prospective tenant that says they have accepted a new job that will allow them to meet the minimum standard set for monthly income, but they are waiting on the company to officially send the contract to be signed. I wouldn’t approve them based on that story alone, but if they do produce a signed contract and I verify with the company that it is legitimate, would you still accept them (assuming everything else checks out regarding the minimum standards) or would you prefer to wait until they at least begin their employment or maybe get their first check? I am somewhat hesitant to rely on just a signed contract and no actual income received yet, but wanted to get other opinions. Also, they have not applied yet; they just asked if the signed contract could be used as proof of income. Thanks!