Hey guys.

Just had an offer get accepted on my first ever rental property. Closing date is mid October. We have an inspection to do but it was built in 2005 so I don't think there will be anything that will change our minds.

Should I start advertising the rental available for November 1st knowing I won't be able to show this until mid October?

Can I even do that legally?

Get permission from the seller after inspections are complete.   If they say you can start to market the house for rent without showing it then you should go ahead and get a jump on it.   Make sure your loan is finalized and inspections complete.   Things could still fall through but getting started early always helps.   I would say do not accept a deposit or any money until you have closed. Permission from the seller is critical.  

@Tracy Streich good point about getting permission. I will talk to my realtor and have her check with the sellers to see if they are good with it.

Yes you can as long as you have the contract and it is disclosed in the contract that you can do that. You need contract to do so because you can only advertise as long as you have "equitable interest" in property.