In the body of the ad I give the link to my property management software where they can apply.  

After everything was fixed and they listed the unit, apparently they claimed that I was not allowed to have any understanding of who would be renting my home due to potential bias and discrimination (this is the first time I have not been able to view applicants general profile (credit score/occupation(removing any identity markers)), but fine, I let them choose the tenant and so far there hasn't been any issues.

Obviously this would be determined at the beginning application/lease stage. 

I wouldn't necessarily say you would need to increase the rent, unless the lease is already coming up on renewal and is due for an increase anyway.If you have a general application, have the incoming tenant just submit an application that way you can still ensure that they meet the criteria whether it be credit, background,etc... 

Subject to the requirements of the Bankruptcy Code, in the event the Tenant is adjudicated as bankrupt, (or makes an assignment for the benefit of creditors), this Lease, at the option of the Landlord, shall terminate upon 30 days written notice and the Dwelling Unit shall be surrendered to the Landlord, who reserves the right to repossess the Dwelling Unit subject to the applicable provisions of law.Should I follow the steps on the contract?

I agree with @Ned and @Chris   also don't fall for buying any monthly software subscription.   

We used out seed money to get set up with some education, set up our office, our computer software (deal analyzer, rehab evaluator) signs, cards, joining local REIA, etc.But again it depends on what your plan of attack is. 

By signing below, applicant(s) give permission to (1) current and former employers to release any information about applicants’ employment history and income history to the above named person;(2) current and former landlords to release any information about applicants’ rental history to the above named person; (3) current and former mortgage lenders on property that applicants’ own or have owned to release any information about mortgage payment history to the above named person; (4) bank, savings and loan, or credit union to provide a verification of funds that applicants’ have on deposit to the above named person, and (5) to the above named person to obtain a copy of applicants’ consumer report (credit report) from any consumer reporting agency and to obtain criminal background information about applicants.

.: If you hire a professional PM, they will handle everything and you won't need any software.

Especially on the software stack you are using.