I have a project that has grown to the point I am seriously thinking about hiring someone to pick up some of the dev load I can't find time for, but it is nowhere near fulltime, at most a few months work.

There have been a number of threads about working as a freelancer: what about hiring one?

From a freelancer's perspective: what does the ideal client look like; what should they do; what do they provide (other than $$$!)

Do you provide standard contracts, or does the client propose them; what about NDAs; how long ahead due you typically book (or would consider booking)

Any insights that would make the experience easier on both sides?