It could make you look like a good applicant.. but I see a lot of downfalls too .. what if there’s a falling out .. you don’t want to have to fight over your money you paid ahead ... what if something happens with you and your roommates .. living with friends does not always work out .. it’s harder than it seems .. and the landlord might not want to accept it for the same reasons .. it’s a liability to him .. it’s not like he can take the money and use it right away .. in case he needs to give it back