I have a potential renter who wants the property.  Although I initially said that she could and she said she wants to move forward, I have not collected a damange deposit, nor has a lease been signed.  She has made some comments that make me uneasy (looking for the razor blades if we don't rent her the house, commenting that she would sit in the front yard, that her son would run away, etc.).  So, now she thinks it's a “done deal” even though no money has been exchanged.  Any suggestions on approaches to peacefully back out of this?  I do not want the tenants who will be moving in to have problems, nor do I want to upset this person anymore than required as it sounds as though she has enough on her plate.  Sorry for rambling, but this is my first rental situation and I feel horrible about misleading her, but uncomfortable at this point in moving forward and renting her my house.  Apparently, her brother also owns a house in the neighborhood, making it a bit more tricky.

Any advice and/or suggestion will be appreciated.  Thanks so much, -m.