My biggest problem today is finding quality contractors.

These houses were built by a company and are all on its own private street and pretty much identical to each other.  

What do you guys think about renting it and selling it privately with a tenant in place?

There's a few different ways there are title companies or private companies that specialize in NOD lists.

One of my biggest fears is that I will not be able to successfully rent out my house as I will be living out of state within the year.Would it be more financially responsible to simply rent until I settle down in one location?

There several great alternatives for you. 1) You could be the money side of the investment while someone else is the acquistion and development and management side. 2) You could be a Private Lender that holds Notes. 3) Or, you could do Commercial properties. 4) You could do new construction. 5) You could be an investor in a Syndication. 6) You could own REITS.

I'm interested in moving out of that area but most of my private lenders want their money in the Tillamook county area. 

As a private/hard money lender, I have no problem with my borrower selling an option behind my position.

The rental apt. is pretty unique (3 beds, 3 baths, 2 of which are on suites) with a private rear deck in a nice residential neighborhood, so I don't think a locked door will deter tenants. 

I can give his number out here on the thread but private message me or text me at my number below.