How to Prepare Your Home for Sale: A Step-by-Step Guide

O wning rental property in Wisconsin can be a lucrative investment, but it also comes with responsibilities and legal considerations. As a landlord, it is essential to understand your rights to protect your property, maintain good relationships with tenants, and operate within the bounds of state laws. Here's an overview of what Wisconsin rental property owners need to know about their rights. Right to Screen Tenants One of the most fundamental rights of property owners is the ability to screen potential tenants. Landlords in Wisconsin can use background checks, credit reports, and references to assess a prospective tenant’s reliability. However, this process must comply with federal Fair Housing laws, which prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status. Wisconsin’s Open Housing Law adds additional protections, such as prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation, marital status, or age. Right to Collect Rent and Enforce Lease Terms Landlords have the right to collect rent as specified in the lease agreement. If a tenant fails to pay rent on time, property owners can enforce late fees if outlined in the lease. Wisconsin law requires that all lease terms, including rent amounts and due dates, be clearly stated in writing. Additionally, landlords can enforce other lease provisions, such as rules about pets, noise levels, or property maintenance, as long as these terms are legal and clearly communicated in the lease. Right to Enter the Property While tenants have a right to privacy, landlords are permitted to enter the rental property under specific circumstances. Wisconsin law requires landlords to provide at least 12 hours' notice before entering, except in emergencies. Reasons for entry might include conducting repairs, showing the property to prospective tenants, or performing inspections. Right to Evict Tenants If tenants violate lease terms or fail to pay rent, landlords have the right to initiate eviction proceedings. Wisconsin law requires landlords to follow specific steps in this process, including: Providing a written notice to the tenant, such as a 5-day notice to remedy a lease violation or a 14-day notice to vacate for nonpayment of rent. Filing an eviction lawsuit in small claims court if the tenant does not comply with the notice. It is important to follow these steps precisely, as failure to do so can delay the eviction process. Right to Protect Property Property owners in Wisconsin can require tenants to pay a security deposit, typically no more than one and a half times the monthly rent. Landlords must return any unused portion of the deposit within 21 days of the lease’s end. Right to Set and Adjust Rental Rates Landlords have the right to determine rental rates based on market conditions and the property’s value. However, rent increases must be consistent with the lease terms. If the lease is month-to-month, landlords must provide at least 28 days' written notice before increasing rent. Right to Address Property Damage If a tenant causes significant damage to the property, landlords can hold them accountable. Wisconsin law allows landlords to deduct the cost of repairs from the security deposit or seek additional compensation through legal action if necessary. Conclusion Understanding your rights as a rental property owner in Wisconsin is key to managing your properties effectively and avoiding legal pitfalls. While these rights provide a foundation for protecting your investment, it’s equally important to stay informed about tenant rights and responsibilities. By fostering a fair and transparent relationship with tenants, landlords can create a positive rental experience for all parties involved. If you’re looking to streamline your operations, consider consulting with us to help navigate Wisconsin’s rental laws and ensure compliance.

As of January 2025, Milwaukee's rental market is experiencing notable growth, with average rents varying across different sources. According to Rent.com, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,699, while Apartments.com reports a lower average of $1,150 for similar units. Zumper places the median rent for all property types at $1,275. These discrepancies highlight the importance of consulting multiple sources when assessing rental rates. (RENT.COM, APARTMENTS.COM, ZUMPER - APARTMENTS FOR RENT & HOUSES) Over the past year, Milwaukee has seen a significant increase in rental prices. Data from Rent.com indicates that the median rent grew by 6.39% from March 2023 to March 2024, ranking Milwaukee 10th among metro regions nationwide for rent growth. (WPR) Despite these rising costs, Milwaukee remains relatively affordable compared to national averages. For instance, Apartments.com notes that the city's average rent is 26% lower than the national average of $1,554 per month. (APARTMENTS.COM) Neighborhood-specific data reveals significant variations in rental prices. In areas like Harambee and Sherman Park, one-bedroom apartments average around $725, whereas in Juneau Town, the average rent for similar units reaches $2,582. (RENT.COM) The surge in rental prices can be attributed to several factors, including increased demand, rising construction costs, and a limited housing inventory. These challenges have made it difficult for many residents to find affordable housing options. (SPECTRUM NEWS 1) In response to these challenges, developers are initiating projects to increase housing availability. For example, the historic 633 Building in downtown Milwaukee is being converted into 224 residential apartments, with 180 units designated as low-income housing. This development aims to provide more affordable options for residents. (WIKIPEDIA) In summary, while Milwaukee's rental market is experiencing growth and rising prices, it remains more affordable than many other U.S. cities. Ongoing development projects and policy initiatives are crucial in addressing housing affordability and meeting the needs of the city's residents.

Winter brings beautiful snowy landscapes, but it also brings freezing temperatures that can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing system. Frozen pipes are not only inconvenient but can also lead to costly repairs if they burst. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you keep your pipes safe and functional throughout the colder months. 1. Insulate Your Pipes Pipe insulation is your first line of defense against freezing temperatures. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to cover exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces. For added protection, consider wrapping pipes with insulation sleeves or fiberglass. 2. Seal Gaps and Cracks Cold air can seep into your home through cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and the foundation. Use caulk or spray foam to seal these openings and prevent drafts from reaching your pipes. Pay extra attention to areas where pipes enter or exit your home. 3. Keep Your Home Warm Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature can prevent pipes from freezing. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F, even if you’re away from home. Open interior doors to allow warm air to circulate freely throughout the house, especially around pipes located near exterior walls. 4. Let Faucets Drip A small, steady drip from faucets connected to exposed pipes can prevent freezing by keeping water moving. This is especially important during extreme cold snaps. Ensure both hot and cold water lines are slightly open to relieve pressure in case of freezing. 5. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses Detach garden hoses from outdoor faucets and drain them before storing. Use faucet covers or insulate outdoor spigots to prevent freezing. If your home has a shut-off valve for outdoor water supply, turn it off and drain the lines. 6. Use Heat Sources Wisely If you’re dealing with particularly cold areas, consider using a space heater to keep the space warm. Be sure to follow all safety guidelines to avoid fire hazards. Never use an open flame to thaw pipes or provide heat. 7. Know Where Your Shut-Off Valve Is In case a pipe does freeze and burst, you’ll need to shut off the water quickly to minimize damage. Locate your main water shut-off valve and ensure it’s in working condition. 8. Monitor the Weather Stay informed about upcoming weather conditions. If a deep freeze is predicted, take extra precautions, such as opening cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate or running a steady drip from faucets. 9. Consider Smart Technology Invest in smart water leak detectors or temperature monitors that can alert you to potential freezing issues. Some devices even allow you to shut off your water remotely, offering peace of mind when you’re away. 10. Take Action Immediately If Pipes Freeze If you suspect a pipe has frozen, turn off the water supply and use a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels to thaw it slowly. Avoid using open flames or high heat, as these can damage the pipe or cause a fire. By following these steps, you can protect your plumbing system and avoid the headaches and expenses associated with frozen pipes. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy a worry-free winter!

In recent years, property management has become an indispensable service for property owners and investors. As the real estate market grows more complex, the need for professional management to navigate changing regulations, tenant expectations, and technological advancements has never been greater. Here’s a closer look at the trends shaping property management today and how they benefit both property owners and tenants. The Rise of Technology in Property Management Technology is transforming how property managers operate, making tasks more efficient and transparent. From online rent payment systems to smart home integrations, property managers are leveraging tech to improve communication and streamline operations. These tools not only save time but also enhance the tenant experience, fostering long-term relationships and reducing turnover. For example, property management platforms now allow tenants to submit maintenance requests online, track the progress of their requests, and communicate directly with their property manager. Similarly, landlords benefit from real-time financial reporting and automated reminders for critical tasks like lease renewals. Focus on Tenant Experience Modern tenants expect more than just a place to live—they seek a community and a lifestyle. Property managers are increasingly prioritizing tenant satisfaction. Additionally, prompt responses to maintenance requests and proactive communication play a crucial role in creating a positive living experience. Satisfied tenants are more likely to renew their leases, reducing vacancy rates and ensuring steady income for property owners. As a result, focusing on tenant experience has become a key strategy for property management companies looking to deliver value to their clients. Navigating Regulatory Changes The regulatory landscape for rental properties is constantly evolving, with new laws and guidelines introduced regularly. From rent control measures to fair housing regulations, staying compliant can be a challenge for property owners. Professional property managers stay up-to-date with these changes, ensuring that properties are managed in accordance with local, state, and federal laws. This expertise not only protects property owners from potential legal issues but also ensures a fair and transparent process for tenants, building trust and credibility in the rental market. Why Professional Property Management Matters For property owners, hiring a professional property management company can be a game-changer. It eliminates the stress of day-to-day operations, ensures compliance with regulations, and maximizes the return on investment. For tenants, it provides a seamless and supportive living experience, making rental properties feel like home. As the property management industry continues to evolve, staying ahead of trends and embracing innovation will be key to success. Whether you’re a property owner or a tenant, partnering with a forward-thinking property management company can make all the difference. Looking for a trusted partner to manage your property? 3B Homes specializes in delivering tailored property management solutions that meet the needs of today’s market. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals.