Does law require landlord accept the first qualified applicant?

[John Wright]

I am in the process of transitioning tenants for my single family home rental property.  I've been lucky with a strong response from my listing but it has raised a question in my mind.  Let's assume 2 or more prospective tenants submit applications, pass the credit and background screening, and meet my other minimum criteria.

Must I accept the the tenants on a first-come first-served basis?  Or can I pick the best applicant.  For example, if they all pass the minimum criteria but one has a credit score of 800 or one applicant rented their last place for 8 years and are only moving now because that house is for sale.  Can I pick the one with the best rental resume?

[Thomas Hickey]

Just remember at the end of the day you own this property and you pick the person who is a best fit. Pre screen, screen some more and do a credit/ eviction check.