Nutley has a lot of industrial area but convenient to RT 3 and RT21 ( direct routes to New York City and Newark ) so is a good rental area. i Believe most of the towns you listed would be good rental areas, just check crime maps and personally check the area to get a feel for them your self.

Your convenience is of no concern to the tenant, just as their convenience is of no concern to you. 

But I figured I'd gamble on it this time and chance missing a month of rent.

It is also near downtown, and conveniently located within a short drive to other business districts, so we get some inquiries from professionals.

If the owner is not wanting to share critical information then you are gambling. 

It was indeed easier and more convenient for me to buy "turnkey" when I was living in Austin as I wanted to buy out of state and build my passive income and that is exactly why I did that.  

We also live close by, so we have the convenience factor in our favor when we do need to get over there.    

One of the conveniences of this is that you file one tax return.  

The home is close to SF State, so during the school year I could target a visiting/new Professor's family, a family looking for corporate housing (e.g. for jobs in SSF biotech) or a group of international students who prefer the convenience of a furnished rental.

Our realtor also suggested this should be termed a Transfer for Convenience, but the attorney is not agreeing.