Lease End Date and Pro-Rated Rent For Mid Month Move In Date

[Shiv B.]

Hello BP, I have a new tenant moving in September 15 on a twelve month lease. Would the lease end September 14, 2024 or can I go September 30, 2024 - making it a twelve and a half month lease?
Also is it advisable to collect pro-rated first month rent or collect full first month rent and SD up front and pro-rate second month rent?
Thanks in advance for input.

[Ray Hage]

Quote from @Nathan Gesner:

Quote from @Shiv B.:

YES!!!

When I approve an applicant, I give them the terms of the lease, move-in costs, etc. Then I give them 24 hours to pay the deposit in full or I offer the rental to the next person. Once they pay that deposit, it's not refundable if they change their mind. You must collect something to hold them accountable or they will ghost on you.

 100% agree after having been ghosted a couple of times years ago. First person with a deposit is the winner.