Newbie: Thinking about renting out our house in Westchester, NY

[Jay Mehta]

Hi all-

Brand new to this site. Bought our house about a year ago in Westchester County and then got a great job offer out of state a couple hours away.

Now we have to decide what to do about our house. We don't plan to buy in our new location right away, and so are thinking about putting our current house up for rent. The house is 4 BR, 3 BA and is in great shape (built in the 50s, gut renovated in 2007). Because we'll be about 2 hours away, and are both busy professionals, we thought we might use a property management company. Comparable houses in the area rent for about $5000/month, and this is about what our mortgage + property taxes come to, so this wouldn't really be an investment-type property.

The idea of being a landlord makes me nervous and I don't know how to go about finding a reputable property management company. Anyone have any ideas for finding one or any recommendations for Westchester property managers? Any other general thoughts for someone in our situation?

Thanks!
-J