Is This a Place for me?

[J Smith]

New here.  I was recommended to this site just today.   It appears to be catered more towards investing in real estate.  My situation may be a little different.  It's this the place for me?

Here's my situating.  I have owned a house since 2017 that my father lived in until he passed 2-1/2 years ago.  It has sat vacant since.  I have been reluctant to even consider renting it out until just this week.  This will be a first for me, so I came here to seek advice.   First, do I need to talk with a real estate attorney,  CPA, or other before I even start this? Are online lease agreements enough to protect me and my assets?  When taking applications, should I charge a fee to cover background, credit, and employment checks?  How much? What company do you use for background and credit checks?  What would you consider an acceptable credit score?  I really know nothing about this, so I welcome any and all advise!! I'm in Alabama.  Thanks in advance!