Duringer-Legal Corner | March 5, 2010
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04 March 2010
The thing is, one of the applicants is getting pushy. She calls me several times a day, says that she knows she is qualified, that I have to rent to her because the unit is still available and she was the first to apply. Truth is, she probably does qualify, but I’m just not sure. I haven’t actually denied her nor have I accepted her, I just need more time. Do I have to rent to her because she was first to qualify?
A: No, there is no requirement to rent to the first person to meet your criteria. You are free to continue and accept additional applications from other candidates. From the pool of applicants you may select the best and most qualified applicant, without regard to timing of receipt of the application.
Often an owner will have a single vacancy and have many qualified applicants to choose from. A thoughtful review of all applicants and their qualifications will allow you to select the most qualified tenant. Don’t let the pushy prospect bully you into making a premature decision.
