Me personally. I would definitely do all the background and credit history you can do legally. I have a few homes that I rent and I try to not allow pets or smoking in the house and absolutely no illegal drugs. If they have a pet, then they pay a pet deposit per pet of $400, that is non-refundable prior to getting a key.
I also make them aware that I will pay random visit to the rental property to insure that they are taking care of the place and not breaking any of the rental agreement clauses. Establish a FIRM DATE for when the rent is due, and make a late payment be felt. Document everything. Also, require them to carry RENTERS INSURANCE on their personal belongings and verify they have it.
I require one months rent up front as part of a refundable damage deposit. I have returned only one full amount in the years I have been renting. That covers painting, floor repairs, window repair, anything that must be done to the property when they move out. We walk the property together and they sign off on the estimate for repairs. AND, NEVER allow them to do the repairs themselves.
you may want to review tenant's rights laws. In alabama, you are required to give two days advanced notice for non-emergency entry in a rental. Everything else I agree with.
