Thanks for your thoughts and the reality check, everyone. With the exception of the 'rent by the room' possibility, it sounds like the consensus is to either rent it like usual or sell if I can't handle the risk.
@Michael Haas-Yes, I was referring to the pandemic protections, which I don't see ending anytime soon, as well as Seattle's overall restrictions on how landlords manage their rentals. I'm kind of an 'accidental landlord' and probably more risk-averse than savvy investors like you all. I tend to think of worst-case scenarios and would like to feel more in control than current restrictions allow landlords to be. Probably not cut out for this line of business! Yet I'm still not quite ready to sell...
I do think I'd be able to rent the house out easily (good house and neighborhood) - I'm just imagining not getting any rent after they move in. A couple of landlords I know have had this happen to them - no rent since April/May lease signing, even after screening for steady income - maybe that's an unlucky sampling but it definitely increased my concern. I appreciate hearing that chances of that happening are likely slim.
I have been managing the property myself, but might just hire a professional to ensure solid screening and hope for the best.
Again, thanks everyone!
