Going on vacation out of the country--who should answer tenant calls?

[B R]

We are going on vacation in August and wondering whom we should get to mind our "store" of 3 SFH's while we are out.

Thinking of having a friend with property management experience take the checkbook and the bat phone and handle things. Alternatively, perhaps an actual property management firm could do respite care?

Any ideas would be appreciated.

Thanks!
Becky