Rent Smart is designed to help those individuals who have little to no rental experience and those who have had difficulty obtaining rental housing. Participants may be first time renters as they graduate from school, homeowners transitioning to renting, individuals with poor rental or credit history, or individuals who have other issues that may cause potential landlords to perceive them as high-risk tenants. Rent Smart provides practical education to help people looking for rental housing find, get, and keep suitable housing. The program 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.
Upcoming In-Person Class:
- March 2026: 23 & 24 @ 12:30 – 3:00PM (Mon/Tues)
- Participants must complete BOTH classes to earn the Rent Smart certificate
Location: LEAVEN Community Room (1475 Opportunity Way, Menasha)
Cost: FREE
Register by March 19, 2026! Call 920-738-9635 to register!
This class is limited to 20 participants.
All participants receive the Rent Smart Workbook.
What you will learn:
- To manage monthly expenses
- To find and maintain affordable housing
- To complete applications and understand tenant screening
- To build positive relationships with landlords and neighbors
- The responsibilities and rights of landlords and tenants
Rent Smart is taught by Extension Winnebago County Educator, Todd Wenzel, helping to make renting a great experience for you!
The University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming in compliance with state and federal law. You may request an interpreter, material in an alternative language or format, or other services to make Extension’s programming more accessible, by contacting the Extension Winnebago County office at 920-232-1970 on Monday-Friday from 8:00am-4:30pm, excluding holidays. There is no added cost for these services.