Newbie here need advice, lease and attorney.

[Brian K]

Hi all. I've had a 2 family house for 24 years. My father lived in one half until a year ago when he got sick and went in a nursing home. Never had to really deal with renters before. He paid his own bills and I helped him out. He went in a nursing home and since the place was fully furnished I allowed my daughter who lived across town to move in with some of her friends and pay a modest rent. Big mistake. I've paid the price and finally got them out. I'm ashamed at my daughter who is a slob and allowed the place to be trashed. My dad passed and I have just rented my first dumpster ever to clean the place out.

I've never actually rented before but after reading nightmares here and talking to a nephew who used to do it I was almost convinced to just sell the place after hearing what he's been through. I would like to start fresh in 2012 and give this a shot.

My questions are, I know I need a good lease, and should I have a lawyer draw that up for me? Where can I find a good lawyer to deal with this renter stuff should I need one? I already know not to hand over the keys until a background check and credit check are done and the rent and security deposit are in my hand. I'm learning but need a lot of help with the lease/lawyer thing. Thanks in advance. I sure hope 2012 is a lot better than 2011.
Sorry if this is the wrong forum for this I don't know where to start.

[George P.]

Your Local Landlord Association will provide with a state-specific lease. Their dues might be less than what you will pay to an attorney.
Regarding the tenant verification question - start reading the forum, it's all inside ;)