renting out house (rental, insurance, evictions)

[dgriddle]

I am considering renting out my house, and would like some advice.

1. Should I do it my self, if so what ask for references, first months rent and deposit equal to monthly rent and last months?
2. Should I let a good Realtor/property manager?

Help need to make a decision fast!

[Thaskateguy]

Make sure you have a Notarized contract. Or at least one with signed witnesses. Make sure the contract favors You, in case of a problem. --Take it from me, there can be problems, that can tie you up in court for what seems like forever. And make you wish you never considered renting out anything. there are con artist out there, that will move in, with the sole intention, of taking your House away from you.

[JustCinco]

If you decide to go at it alone, be sure to check credit, rental and criminal history.

[Poltracker]

If you do not know what you are doing, you can get royally messed up. I would suggest that you first look at Texas LL/Tenant laws and go to various sites to educate yourself(make sure to include legal forums as you will need them). If you are still unsure, definitely get an agent or property management company to assist you.
1. The first and foremost thing is to make sure your contract and penalties are written correctly, do you allow smoking or pets? Did you remeber to require that the tenant carry a minimum amount of renter's insurance? Are there any special issues you want addressed? The contract is the controlling document so it must be absolutely correct.
2. Do you have pre and post inspection methods in place?
3. Do you know what the rules are concerning security deposits and their return?

After you have taken care of the first 3 issues, then you can consider tenants.

[Thaskateguy]

Also make sure that the contract is crystal clear about "Evictions" ---Like divorcees, we seldom evict the same person we rented to. You only have one chance to get it right.