But doing tenant screening is better than accepting whoever you have.Also several people mentioned, good tenant become bad tenant after losing job, ending a relationship, or going through change in their life.

I'd accept let them know you understand, you'll wave late fee for September, ask how much they can pay.. if it's at least 50 to 60% I'd say Ok and  your next payment will be on XXX date. and find out how soon they expect to return to work..

We also had a few leads that did accept our offers however for other circumstances (on their end) the deal could not get done. 

I also would not just accept his price, I would always negotiate and only stick to the numbers that work for ME, not him.

I'm in Southern Oregon, and I have a friend in Portland, who says that up there, you have to accept the first applicant who meets your formal criteria.

Do you go through and get the money and do a POF and if it's not accepted just hold it (and pay interest??)

I have accepted a job offer and will be relocating from Boulder, CO to Oakland /Bay Area. 

(with my Realtor hat on) - your initial numbers are off.1) The listing agent is "not accepting anymore offers," as of 9/6. 

Marg is on Social Security and is living with care.Kat pays Marg in Cash, in order not to jepordize the elderly womans (Marg's) SS.The FHA will not accept this, as they want to see proof of rent paid, but the sellers do not want the rent coming in as it could jeopardize their mothers (M) SocialS.The elderly woman owns the house outright and is quite flexible when it comes to payments and allowing my friend to possibly stay another 6 months in order to satisfy the FHA, but is at that point where she would like to get her estate in order for her will and would not be able to carry financing for a long period.

If they accept the job, their name and reputation would be the Brand the local renters would recognize and probably flock too.