Using an agency to rent your property

[Maneesh Joshi]

Hi all,

I am getting close to closing on a rental property in Point Breeze, Philadelphia. I plan on renting out the property ASAP.  What are the advantages of getting a rental broker to rent out my property?  Typically, In new york the commission is paid by the renter. Is that the case in Philly or does the landloard pay it?  Since I live in New York I was thinking it might be better for me to have someone do the leg work?  Does anyone have tips or things I should look for in a agent?  Questions I should ask them?

Also, in researching on how to apply for a rental license I saw that you need to assign an agent that resides in Philly that can forward 
notices, orders, or summonses to the owner. What do you normally do for that if you live outside the city?

Thanks in advance.