Pursuing Legal Action in Collecting Rent

[outofstatelandlord]

My question involves landlord-tenant law in the State of: Georgia

I rented my house in Georgia when I moved to Florida. I have a signed lease. The renter broke the lease abruptly, giving me a little over one week's notice. Renter consistently paid rent late and for the last full month, only paid part of the rent for that month and none of the rent for the next month in which they were there until the 9th. Renter stated they would clean the house (it is trashed). I had put the house on the market and the renter agreed to keep the house clean for showing. I found out that did not happen and the renter also removed sale sign from the yard and told my neighbors they had bought the house and it was theirs. Renter left no forwarding address, but I do know where they work. According to the lease, I can sue for remainder of the lease (10 mos. rent) as well as attorney's fees, etc. How strong of a case do I have and how should I pursue this? Can her wages be garnished?

[LawResearcherMissy]

According to the lease, I can sue for remainder of the lease (10 mos. rent) as well as attorney's fees, etc.

Yes, provided that you make a good faith effort to mitigate your damages by actively seeking another tenant.

How strong of a case do I have and how should I pursue this?

You have a signed lease. That's pretty strong. Consult with a local attorney specializing in landlord-tenant issues.

Can her wages be garnished?

If you prevail in court, yes, but this will require a separate court action.

[outofstatelandlord]

Thanks for the response. You bet I am actively looking for another tenant. I can't afford to cover two mortgages (Georgia and Florida house), so I am very anxious to find another tenant. I can't afford to lose my house, but will if I can't find someone to rent or buy it. Unfortunately, the market is terrible there.