Make sure it is clean and updated so it shows well.2.

Is cleaning up garbage, scrubbing toilets, fixing broken sinks, carpentry or any of those the highest & best use of your time? 

I believe NYS law is 15 days to keep the things, but I have also read 30 days is standard. i want to get the property cleaned up and start working on it...

You can go further with mid stay cleans, grocery delivery, and more.

Does anyone have nay suggestions when it comes down to screening besides the basics.I know some people like to visit potential clients homes to see if they are clean and orderly, but that can be a bit challenging when we are out of state. 

They will handle all aspects of renting out your second home.Long-Term Rentals (LTR): The management firm can find long-term tenants for your property, screen potential renters, handle lease agreements, and manage any issues that arise during the tenancy.Seasonal or Short-Term Rentals: If you prefer to rent out your property on a seasonal or short-term basis, the management firm can handle marketing, bookings, check-ins, check-outs, and cleaning between guests.

My question is, it recommends that tenants maintain certain area on the property there responsibility to keep clean is so any recommendations?

Trim, at least, needs to be semi-gloss or it won't hold up to cleaning and high-touch.

If we put a tenant in the house we will have to pay the state back their $8,000 of assistance.Loan Balance: $150KCapital Required to Rent: $10K ($8K to pay out the state and $2K that I put into professional cleaning and new carpets.) 

Tenant stipulates, represents, and warrants that Tenant has visually examined the Premises, and that it is, at the time of this Lease, in good order, repair, and in a safe, clean, and habitable condition.