Background Check For Real Estate License In Georgia
Introduction
Georgia is a state in the southeastern region of the United States. The state has a thriving real estate industry, which is regulated by the Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC). In order to obtain a real estate license in Georgia, individuals must go through a background check. This article will provide an overview of the background check process for real estate licenses in Georgia.
Why Is A Background Check Required?
The GREC requires background checks to ensure that individuals applying for a real estate license have not engaged in any criminal activity that would make them unfit to hold a license. This is important to protect the public and maintain the integrity of the real estate industry.
The Background Check Process
When applying for a real estate license in Georgia, applicants must submit to a criminal background check. The background check is conducted by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) and includes a search of the applicant's criminal history in the state of Georgia and any other state where the applicant has lived in the past 10 years.
Applicants must also provide fingerprints, which are used to conduct a national criminal history check through the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The GBI and FBI will notify the GREC of any criminal history found during the background check.
What Criminal History Will Disqualify An Applicant?
The GREC will review any criminal history found during the background check and determine if it disqualifies an applicant from obtaining a real estate license. The following criminal history may disqualify an applicant:
- Felony convictions
- Misdemeanor convictions involving moral turpitude
- Convictions for crimes related to real estate or finance
- Convictions for crimes involving fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation
What Happens If An Applicant Is Disqualified?
If an applicant is disqualified from obtaining a real estate license due to their criminal history, they may appeal the decision to the GREC. The GREC will then determine if the applicant is eligible for a waiver of the disqualification based on mitigating circumstances.
Examples of mitigating circumstances may include:
- The age of the applicant at the time of the offense
- The nature and seriousness of the offense
- The length of time since the offense occurred
- Evidence of rehabilitation or good conduct since the offense occurred
Conclusion
A background check is a necessary step in obtaining a real estate license in Georgia. It helps to ensure that only qualified and trustworthy individuals are allowed to work in the real estate industry. If you are considering applying for a real estate license in Georgia, be prepared to undergo a thorough background check as part of the application process.