Hi Lisa,
I agree with Pat. Set it up so you are comfortable. I ask for 25% deposit after I send the confirmation papers to the tenants. The balance is due 60 days prior to check-in. I provide a contract but offer my tenants the opportunity to "fine-tune" it so that they too can be as comfortable as possible with the transaction. They can pay by personal check - if it bounces it would be the same as a non-payment. If the tenant would prefer paypal they are responsible for the 2.9% fee. I may be odd, but, so far I have really enjoyed renting points out. It's fun sharing the excitement of planning vacations that are something really special.
Charlotte