Extension’s Rent Smart focuses on the knowledge and skills essential for a successful renting experience. It challenges participants to know and understand their rights and responsibilities as a tenant, as well as know and understand the rights and responsibilities of their landlord. Emphasis is on forming a strong partnership between the tenant and landlord. Establishing a positive rental history is much like having a positive credit report and Rent Smart starts participants on the right path for success. Participants  receive a certificate after completing the six module course.

Rent Smart strives to guide and inform participants so they may: learn new skills to build positive relationships with landlords and neighbors; gain confidence in their ability to find and maintain affordable housing; understand the application and screening processes used by landlords and learn the responsibilities and rights of tenants and landlords. Rent Smart is ideal for those who have never rented or have had some challenges renting in the past.

In Fond du Lac County, Rent Smart is provided for participants at several agencies including the Beacon House and St. Katharine Drexel Shelter. In addition, Rent Smart is offered at the Fond du Lac Public Library several times a year and is open for anyone who wants to learn more about having a successful rental experience. The next series will be held on June 10, 17, and 24th at 3 pm in the Community Room. Please contact Carol Bralich, Human Development & Relationships Educator at carol.bralich@wisc.edu for registration information.  For those interested in a virtual option, Rent Smart is offered monthly via zoom by Extension educators from across the state. Registration is required.

Extension also offers a Rent Smart Train-the-Trainer professional development training twice per year. This training is designed to help trainers facilitate the Rent Smart program effectively in their own organizations and communities. The next virtual training is July 7, 10, 14, and 17th.