How to Vet Tenants Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide for Georgia Landlords
Smart tenant screening is the difference between a cash-flowing rental and a year-long headache.
Whether you’re managing a few properties or just rented out your first home, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is who you allow to live there. And in Georgia — where landlord laws are favorable but still require due diligence — vetting tenants the right way can save you thousands in damage, vacancies, and legal drama.
At Origami Property Management , we’ve screened hundreds of tenants across North Fulton and Metro Atlanta. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to screen tenants like a seasoned pro.
1. Start With a Strong Rental Application
Before you can screen anyone, you need the right information. Your rental application should include:
- Full name, date of birth, and SSN
- Current and previous addresses (with landlord contacts)
- Employment info and income details
- Authorization to run a background/credit check
- Personal references
Pro Tip: Use a digital application platform that integrates with your tenant screening tools. We use tools that auto-verify income and flag fake references.
2. Set Clear, Legal Criteria
Don’t wing it. Set written, non-discriminatory criteria before you review anyone’s application. For example:
- Minimum credit score: 600+
- Monthly income: 3x rent
- No evictions in the last 5 years
- Clean background check
This protects you under Fair Housing laws and helps you stay consistent.
3. Run a Full Background & Credit Check
This is non-negotiable. In Georgia, landlords are allowed to run:
- Credit reports — to check debt, delinquencies, and creditworthiness
- Criminal background checks — for safety concern
- Eviction history — essential to avoid repeat offenders
Red flag? Look out for consistent missed payments, large collections accounts, or any recent evictions.
4. Verify Employment and Income
Don’t just take their word for it. Verify income with:
- Recent pay stubs
- W-2s or 1099s (for contractors)
- Employer verification (email or phone call)
You want to see stability , not just income. Someone who just started a new job might be a risk if their savings are low.
5. Call Their Previous Landlords (and Watch for Fakes)
Ask their current and past landlords:
- Did they pay on time?
- Any property damage?
- Would you rent to them again?
Watch out for fake references or friends posing as landlords. A quick property record search can confirm who owns the property.
6. Trust Your System, Not Just Your Gut
Yes, you want to like your tenants — but don’t skip steps because someone “seems nice.” Emotional decisions lead to problems. Stick to your criteria, follow the process, and document everything.
7. Use a Professional Property Manager (Like Us)
If all this sounds like a lot, it’s because it is. And it’s why smart investors outsource it. At Origami Property Management, we handle everything from marketing and screening to leasing and long-term tenant relations — with data-driven systems and a human touch.
Final Thoughts
Tenant screening isn’t just about avoiding bad tenants — it’s about attracting great ones.
The best tenants are looking for homes managed professionally, with clear expectations and responsive service. By screening carefully, you protect your investment and your peace of mind.
If you’re a landlord in Georgia and want help placing (and keeping) great tenants, let’s talk.
📍 Based in Alpharetta, Origami Property Management provides full-service property management across North Fulton and Metro Atlanta.
👉 Learn more at Origamipm.com
📞 Call us: 470–641–2463
How to Vet Tenants Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide for Georgia Landlords was originally published in The Fold by Origami Property Management on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.
The Fold by Origami Property Management
