I need help now as I have renters calling but no help.

[Chelle Knijnenburg]

Hello, We put our For Rent Sign in the window and we have about 5 calls within 4 days. Unfortunately, the person who was to help me has been pulled away and I am in need of quick advice and/or guidance.  

I need help, either making a decision or with the actual tenant screening process. Should I pull the sign out of the window and then find someone to help me and start all over? If so, what do I tell the 5 people who called over the weekend?

Should I hire a Property Manager and have whoever says yes to handle it? The two I interviewed want to use the standard contract without any addendums. I signed up for Smart Moves.  The info I researched recommends to include addendum's such as the renter must by renters insurance, renter is responsible for first $100.00 of repairs, the garbage disposal is not covered, and more. We would like to include a 2 month buy out clause. Plus, the advice seems to lean toward visiting the possible tenant's present home. 

I believe the description could help someone in the advice I seek. The townhouse is a 3-story, 1855 SF, techie town home with a 2-car garage, 500 SF of storage in a highly desirable area near many Corporate HQ's, walking distance to shopping, dining, music clubs, dry cleaner, hair salons, spas, gym, yoga, a Marriott & entertainment. Recently updated with custom paint touches throughout. Located near the tollway, I-90, and 121, 3 malls, sports stadium, and 20+ minutes to the airport. This does not seem to be the type of place that a professional tenant would fit into. So, are all the addendum's necessary in what appears to be such a great area -- or am I worrying too much?

Thanks.