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303 <main name="maincontent" id="maincontent" class="no-hero"> 304 <section class="container-fluid pw-1500 body-container"> 305 <head> 306 <link rel="stylesheet" href="https://cdnjs.cloudflare.com/ajax/libs/Tipue-Search/5.0.0/tipuesearch.css" integrity="sha256-zuGZE2/2OoFIZCxDR8hIGYc4vwxtTobqHs6p2N+uqdU=" crossorigin="anonymous" /> 307</head> 308<body> 309 <header class="blog-header"> 310 311 <div class="heading-main"> 312 313 <h1><a href="/blog">Property Management Blog</a></h1> 314 315 </div> 316 </header> 317 <div class="blog-container"> 318 <section class="main-panel"> 319 <div id="tipue_search_content"> 320 <div class="blog-post-list"> 321 322 <article class="blog-post"> 323 <div class="post-image"> 324 <a class="post-featured" href="/blog/boosting-roi-creative-renovations-that-attract-top-tenants" aria-label="read about Boosting ROI in Green Bay: Creative Renovations That Attract Top Tenants"> 325 <span class="sr-only">Blog Post</span> 326 327 <img class="lazyload cover" data-src="/images/blog/Boosting ROI in Green Bay Creative Renovations That Attract Top Tenants min.png" alt="Boosting ROI in Green Bay: Creative Renovations That Attract Top Tenants"> 328 329 </a> 330 </div> 331 <div class="post-content"> 332 <header class="post-header"> 333 <div class="post-date">By Nick Malesevich - Thursday, August 13, 2026 </div> 334 <h2 class="post-title">Boosting ROI in Green Bay: Creative Renovations That Attract Top Tenants</h2> 335 </header> 336 <section class="post-body"> 337 What kind of renovations might make your Green Bay rental property more attractive to the best tenants? We have some ideas for updates and upgrades that won’t only attract qualified tenants, but also increase your rental value and your long-term ROI. The Green Bay... 338 <div class="clear"></div> 339 <a href="/blog/boosting-roi-creative-renovations-that-attract-top-tenants" aria-label="read about Boosting ROI in Green Bay: Creative Renovations That Attract Top Tenants" class="read-more btn--arrow">Read More</a> 340 </section> 341 </div> 342 </article> 343 344 <article class="blog-post"> 345 <div class="post-image"> 346 <a class="post-featured" href="/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-tenant-screening-finding-quality-renters" aria-label="read about The Ultimate Guide to Tenant Screening: Finding Quality Renters in Sheboygan"> 347 <span class="sr-only">Blog Post</span> 348 349 <img class="lazyload cover" data-src="/images/blog/The Ultimate Guide to Tenant Screening min.png" alt="The Ultimate Guide to Tenant Screening: Finding Quality Renters in Sheboygan"> 350 351 </a> 352 </div> 353 <div class="post-content"> 354 <header class="post-header"> 355 <div class="post-date">By Nick Malesevich - Thursday, June 11, 2026 </div> 356 <h2 class="post-title">The Ultimate Guide to Tenant Screening: Finding Quality Renters in Sheboygan</h2> 357 </header> 358 <section class="post-body"> 359 Are you placing the most qualified residents into your Sheboygan rental property?If you have lately needed to deal with late payments, property damage, or tenants who are uncommunicative and unresponsive, it’s possible that your tenant screening systems could use a tweak.&n... 360 <div class="clear"></div> 361 <a href="/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-tenant-screening-finding-quality-renters" aria-label="read about The Ultimate Guide to Tenant Screening: Finding Quality Renters in Sheboygan" class="read-more btn--arrow">Read More</a> 362 </section> 363 </div> 364 </article> 365 366 <article class="blog-post"> 367 <div class="post-image"> 368 <a class="post-featured" href="/blog/diversify-your-portfolio-exploring-investment-opportunities-in-real-estate" aria-label="read about Diversify Your Portfolio: Exploring Investment Opportunities in Fox Valley Real Estate"> 369 <span class="sr-only">Blog Post</span> 370 371 <img class="lazyload cover" data-src="/images/blog/Diversify Your Portfolio Exploring Investment Opportunities in Fox Valley Real Estate min.png" alt="Diversify Your Portfolio: Exploring Investment Opportunities in Fox Valley Real Estate"> 372 373 </a> 374 </div> 375 <div class="post-content"> 376 <header class="post-header"> 377 <div class="post-date">By Nick Malesevich - Thursday, April 9, 2026 </div> 378 <h2 class="post-title">Diversify Your Portfolio: Exploring Investment Opportunities in Fox Valley Real Estate</h2> 379 </header> 380 <section class="post-body"> 381 Are you looking for new investment opportunities that will diversify your portfolio and deliver profitable outcomes? We invite you to consider Fox Valley real estate, in Wisconsin. It’s understandable, while so many investors are constantly looking at high-demand ... 382 <div class="clear"></div>
383 <a href="/blog/diversify-your-portfolio-exploring-investment-opportunities-in-real-estate" aria-label="read about Diversify Your Portfolio: Exploring Investment Opportunities in Fox Valley Real Estate" class="read-more btn--arrow">Read More</a> 384 </section> 385 </div> 386 </article> 387 388 <article class="blog-post"> 389 <div class="post-image"> 390 <a class="post-featured" href="/blog/beyond-basic-maintenance-protecting-your-rental-property-from-winter-woes" aria-label="read about Beyond Basic Maintenance: Protecting Your Green Bay Rental Property from Winter Woes"> 391 <span class="sr-only">Blog Post</span> 392 393 <img class="lazyload cover" data-src="/images/blog/Protecting Your Green Bay Rental Property from Winter Woes min_1.png" alt="Beyond Basic Maintenance: Protecting Your Green Bay Rental Property from Winter Woes"> 394 395 </a> 396 </div> 397 <div class="post-content"> 398 <header class="post-header"> 399 <div class="post-date">By Nick Malesevich - Thursday, February 12, 2026 </div> 400 <h2 class="post-title">Beyond Basic Maintenance: Protecting Your Green Bay Rental Property from Winter Woes</h2> 401 </header> 402 <section class="post-body"> 403 Are you ready for winter?Green Bay, Wisconsin is not exactly known for its warm winter days and its lack of snow. It’s going to be cold. There will be ice. So how can you best protect your Green Bay rental property? In our experience as property managers, we can tell y... 404 <div class="clear"></div> 405 <a href="/blog/beyond-basic-maintenance-protecting-your-rental-property-from-winter-woes" aria-label="read about Beyond Basic Maintenance: Protecting Your Green Bay Rental Property from Winter Woes" class="read-more btn--arrow">Read More</a> 406 </section> 407 </div> 408 </article> 409 410 <article class="blog-post"> 411 <div class="post-image"> 412 <a class="post-featured" href="/blog/navigating-rental-landscape-essential-legal-tips-for-landlords" aria-label="read about Navigating Sheboygan's Rental Landscape: Essential Legal Tips for Landlords"> 413 <span class="sr-only">Blog Post</span> 414 415 <img class="lazyload cover" data-src="/images/blog/Navigating Sheboygans Rental Landscape Essential Legal Tips for Landlords min.png" alt="Navigating Sheboygan's Rental Landscape: Essential Legal Tips for Landlords"> 416 417 </a> 418 </div> 419 <div class="post-content"> 420 <header class="post-header"> 421 <div class="post-date">By Nick Malesevich - Thursday, December 11, 2025 </div> 422 <h2 class="post-title">Navigating Sheboygan's Rental Landscape: Essential Legal Tips for Landlords</h2> 423 </header> 424 <section class="post-body"> 425 Thinking about investing in Sheboygan real estate? Maybe you already own a rental property there. Maybe you’re a local landlord and maybe you’re considering an investment even though you live outside of the area. There are a number of good opportunities here, and... 426 <div class="clear"></div> 427 <a href="/blog/navigating-rental-landscape-essential-legal-tips-for-landlords" aria-label="read about Navigating Sheboygan's Rental Landscape: Essential Legal Tips for Landlords" class="read-more btn--arrow">Read More</a> 428 </section> 429 </div> 430 </article> 431 432 <article class="blog-post"> 433 <div class="post-image"> 434 <a class="post-featured" href="/blog/maximize-your-rental-income-smart-strategies-for-savvy-investors" aria-label="read about Maximize Your Fox Valley Rental Income: Smart Strategies for Savvy Investors"> 435 <span class="sr-only">Blog Post</span> 436 437 <img class="lazyload cover" data-src="/images/blog/Maximize Your Fox Valley Rental Income Smart Strategies for Savvy Investors min.png" alt="Maximize Your Fox Valley Rental Income: Smart Strategies for Savvy Investors"> 438 439 </a> 440 </div> 441 <div class="post-content"> 442 <header class="post-header"> 443 <div class="post-date">By Nick Malesevich - Thursday, October 9, 2025 </div> 444 <h2 class="post-title">Maximize Your Fox Valley Rental Income: Smart Strategies for Savvy Investors</h2> 445 </header> 446 <section class="post-body"> 447 Are you looking for smart ways to maximize what you’re earning with your Fox Valley rental property? It’s more than just raising the rent.To effectively increase your rental income, it’s important to focus on tenant quality, preventative maintenance, and re... 448 <div class="clear"></div>
449 <a href="/blog/maximize-your-rental-income-smart-strategies-for-savvy-investors" aria-label="read about Maximize Your Fox Valley Rental Income: Smart Strategies for Savvy Investors" class="read-more btn--arrow">Read More</a> 450 </section> 451 </div> 452 </article> 453 454 <article class="blog-post"> 455 <div class="post-image"> 456 <a class="post-featured" href="/blog/investing-in-real-estate--key-considerations-for-new-property-owners" aria-label="read about Investing in Fox Valley Real Estate: Key Considerations for New Property Owners"> 457 <span class="sr-only">Blog Post</span> 458 459 <img class="lazyload cover" data-src="/images/blog/Investing in Fox Valley Real Estate min.png" alt="Investing in Fox Valley Real Estate: Key Considerations for New Property Owners"> 460 461 </a> 462 </div> 463 <div class="post-content"> 464 <header class="post-header"> 465 <div class="post-date">By Nick Malesevich - Thursday, April 3, 2025 </div> 466 <h2 class="post-title">Investing in Fox Valley Real Estate: Key Considerations for New Property Owners</h2> 467 </header> 468 <section class="post-body"> 469 Investing in Fox Valley real estate is a smart move, and even if you’re new to investing and the rental property market, you’re already setting yourself up for success and profitability. Real estate generally makes money, especially when you’re able to keep your... 470 <div class="clear"></div> 471 <a href="/blog/investing-in-real-estate--key-considerations-for-new-property-owners" aria-label="read about Investing in Fox Valley Real Estate: Key Considerations for New Property Owners" class="read-more btn--arrow">Read More</a> 472 </section> 473 </div> 474 </article> 475 476 <article class="blog-post"> 477 <div class="post-image"> 478 <a class="post-featured" href="/blog/proactive-maintenance-the-key-to-long-term-property-value-for-your-rental-property" aria-label="read about Proactive Maintenance: The Key to Long-Term Property Value for Your Green Bay Rental Property"> 479 <span class="sr-only">Blog Post</span> 480 481 <img class="lazyload cover" data-src="/images/blog/Proactive Maintenance min.png" alt="Proactive Maintenance: The Key to Long-Term Property Value for Your Green Bay Rental Property"> 482 483 </a> 484 </div> 485 <div class="post-content"> 486 <header class="post-header"> 487 <div class="post-date">By Nick Malesevich - Thursday, February 6, 2025 </div> 488 <h2 class="post-title">Proactive Maintenance: The Key to Long-Term Property Value for Your Green Bay Rental Property</h2> 489 </header> 490 <section class="post-body"> 491 Property value is at the core of your profitability as a rental property owner in Green Bay. You have to make sure its value is increasing, its condition is stable, and that there are plenty of tenants who continuously want to rent it from you. There are many ways to keep yo... 492 <div class="clear"></div> 493 <a href="/blog/proactive-maintenance-the-key-to-long-term-property-value-for-your-rental-property" aria-label="read about Proactive Maintenance: The Key to Long-Term Property Value for Your Green Bay Rental Property" class="read-more btn--arrow">Read More</a> 494 </section> 495 </div> 496 </article> 497 498 <article class="blog-post"> 499 <div class="post-image"> 500 <a class="post-featured" href="/blog/pet-friendly-rentals-pros-cons-and-best-practices" aria-label="read about Pet-Friendly Rentals in Sheboygan: Pros, Cons, and Best Practices"> 501 <span class="sr-only">Blog Post</span> 502 503 <img class="lazyload cover" data-src="/images/blog/Pet Friendly Rentals in Sheboygan min.png" alt="Pet-Friendly Rentals in Sheboygan: Pros, Cons, and Best Practices"> 504 505 </a> 506 </div> 507 <div class="post-content"> 508 <header class="post-header"> 509 <div class="post-date">By Nick Malesevich - Thursday, December 5, 2024 </div> 510 <h2 class="post-title">Pet-Friendly Rentals in Sheboygan: Pros, Cons, and Best Practices</h2> 511 </header> 512 <section class="post-body"> 513 Are you a cat person or dog person? Maybe you love all animals. Maybe you love all animals except the animals who are living in y
513our rental property. This is understandable. Allowing pets into a property increases the risk of damage. There’s also the potenti... 514 <div class="clear"></div> 515 <a href="/blog/pet-friendly-rentals-pros-cons-and-best-practices" aria-label="read about Pet-Friendly Rentals in Sheboygan: Pros, Cons, and Best Practices" class="read-more btn--arrow">Read More</a> 516 </section> 517 </div> 518 </article> 519 520 <article class="blog-post"> 521 <div class="post-image"> 522 <a class="post-featured" href="/blog/navigating-legal-landmines-essential-lease-agreement-tips-for-landlords" aria-label="read about Navigating Legal Landmines: Essential Lease Agreement Tips for Green Bay Landlords"> 523 <span class="sr-only">Blog Post</span> 524 525 <img class="lazyload cover" data-src="/images/blog/Navigating Legal Landmines min.png" alt="Navigating Legal Landmines: Essential Lease Agreement Tips for Green Bay Landlords"> 526 527 </a> 528 </div> 529 <div class="post-content"> 530 <header class="post-header"> 531 <div class="post-date">By Nick Malesevich - Thursday, October 3, 2024 </div> 532 <h2 class="post-title">Navigating Legal Landmines: Essential Lease Agreement Tips for Green Bay Landlords</h2> 533 </header> 534 <section class="post-body"> 535 Mistakes are frustrating but they’re also part of being human. You’ll have to allow yourself the grace to trip over your own intentions and plans from time to time; to make the wrong choice, go the wrong way, misinterpret some good advice. The problem with m... 536 <div class="clear"></div> 537 <a href="/blog/navigating-legal-landmines-essential-lease-agreement-tips-for-landlords" aria-label="read about Navigating Legal Landmines: Essential Lease Agreement Tips for Green Bay Landlords" class="read-more btn--arrow">Read More</a> 538 </section> 539 </div> 540 </article> 541 542</div> 543 <p class="page-nav"><div>Showing 1- 10 of 32</div><ul class="pagination"><li class="active"><a href="?pg=1">1</a></li><li><a href="?pg=2">2</a></li><li><a href="?pg=3">3</a></li><li><a href="?pg=4">4</a></li><li><a href="?pg=4">></a></li></ul></p> 544 </div> 545 </section> 546 <aside class="side-panel"> 547 <section> 548 <h4>Search</h4> 549 <form action="/blog"> 550 <div class="tipue_search_group"> 551 <input type="text" name="q" id="tipue_search_input" pattern=".{3,}" title="At least 3 characters" placeholder="search" required aria-label="Search Blog Posts by Keyword"><button type="submit" class="tipue_search_button"><div class="tipue_search_icon"><i class="fal fa-search"><span class="sr-only">Search<span></i></div></button> 552 </div> 553 </form> 554 </section> 555 <section> 556 <h4>Follow Us</h4> 557 <div class="social"> 558 <a href="https://www.facebook.com/p/Blue-Frog-Property-Management-61576666768092/" target="_blank" title="opens in a new window" role="button"><i class="fa-brands fa-square-facebook" aria-hidden="true"></i><span class="visually-hidden">Facebook</span></a> 559<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@blue.frog.property?_r=1&_t=ZT-96qjPs1L8If" target="_blank" title="opens in a new window" role="button"><i class="fa-brands fa-tiktok" aria-hidden="true"></i><span class="visually-hidden">TikTok</span></a> 560<a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.instagram.com_bluefrogpropertymanagement-3Futm-5Fsource-3Dqr&d=DwICAg&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=af-usg7QR-kAltiFzd09F__I7zTz5igWmtymY-lJ6qQ&m=pJugIRT5yeWFCiAsmbxobbBKoELXPr0OLRhvZL_YdBFClksofHhZTHbHWRqCsYvZ&s=9mF3ifPyw_GzHE2yAN9lQpKwAUsWFj6jEpPx98ne09M&e=" target="_blank" title="opens in a new window" role="button"><i class="fa-brands fa-instagram" aria-hidden="true"></i><span class="visually-hidden">Instagram</span></a> 561<!-- <a href="#" target="_blank" title="opens in a new window" role="button"><i class="fa fa-linkedin" aria-hidden="true"></i><span class="visually-hidden">Linked In</span></a> --> 562<!-- <a href="#" target="_blank" title="opens in a new window" role="button"><i class="fa fa-youtube-play" aria-hidden="true"></i><span class="visually-hidden">Youtube</span></a> --> 563<!-- <a href="#" target="_blank" title="opens in a new window" role="button"><i class="fa fa-twitter" aria-hidden="true"></i><span class="visually-hidden">Twitter</span></a> --> 564 </div> 565 </section> 566 <section> 567 <h4>Recent Posts</h4> 568 <ul class="blog-recent-posts"> 569 570 <li> 571 <a href="/blog/boosting-roi-creative-renovations-that-attract-top-tenants"> 572 <div class="post-thumb"> 573 574 <img class="cover lazyload" data-src="/images/blog/Boosting ROI in Green Bay Creative Renovations That Attract Top Tenants min.png" alt="Boosting ROI in Green Bay: Creative Renovations That Attract Top Tenants"> 575 576 </div> 577 <div class="post-details"> 578 <div class="post-title">Boosting ROI in Green Bay: Creative Renovations That Attract Top Tenants</div> 579 <div class="post-date">By Nick Malesevich - Aug 13, 2026</div> 580 </div> 581 </a> 582 </li> 583 584 <li> 585 <a href="/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-tenant-screening-finding-quality-renters"> 586 <div class="post-thumb"> 587 588 <img class="cover lazyload" data-src="/images/blog/The Ultimate Guide to Tenant Screening min.png" alt="The Ultimate Guide to Tenant Screening: Finding Quality Renters in Sheboygan"> 589 590 </div> 591 <div class="post-details"> 592 <div class="post-title">The Ultimate Guide to Tenant Screening: Finding Quality Renters in Sheboygan</div> 593 <div class="post-date">By Nick Malesevich - Jun 11, 2026</div> 594 </div> 595 </a> 596 </li> 597 598 <li> 599 <a href="/blog/diversify-your-portfolio-exploring-investment-opportunities-in-real-estate"> 600 <div class="post-thumb"> 601 602 <img class="cover lazyload" data-src="/images/blog/Diversify Your Portfolio Exploring Investment Opportunities in Fox Valley Real Estate min.png" alt="Diversify Your Portfolio: Exploring Investment Opportunities in Fox Valley Real Estate"> 603 604 </div> 605 <div class="post-details"> 606 <div class="post-title">Diversify Your Portfolio: Exploring Investment Opportunities in Fox Valley Real Estate</div> 607 <div class="post-date">By Nick Malesevich - Apr 09, 2026</div> 608 </div> 609 </a> 610 </li> 611 612 <li> 613 <a href="/blog/beyond-basic-maintenance-protecting-your-rental-property-from-winter-woes"> 614 <div class="post-thumb"> 615 616 <img class="cover lazyload" data-src="/images/blog/Protecting Your Green Bay Rental Property from Winter Woes min_1.png" alt="Bey
616ond Basic Maintenance: Protecting Your Green Bay Rental Property from Winter Woes"> 617 618 </div> 619 <div class="post-details"> 620 <div class="post-title">Beyond Basic Maintenance: Protecting Your Green Bay Rental Property from Winter Woes</div> 621 <div class="post-date">By Nick Malesevich - Feb 12, 2026</div> 622 </div> 623 </a> 624 </li> 625 626 <li> 627 <a href="/blog/navigating-rental-landscape-essential-legal-tips-for-landlords"> 628 <div class="post-thumb"> 629 630 <img class="cover lazyload" data-src="/images/blog/Navigating Sheboygans Rental Landscape Essential Legal Tips for Landlords min.png" alt="Navigating Sheboygan's Rental Landscape: Essential Legal Tips for Landlords"> 631 632 </div> 633 <div class="post-details"> 634 <div class="post-title">Navigating Sheboygan's Rental Landscape: Essential Legal Tips for Landlords</div> 635 <div class="post-date">By Nick Malesevich - Dec 11, 2025</div> 636 </div> 637 </a> 638 </li> 639 640</ul> 641 </section> 642 <section> 643 <h4>Categories</h4> 644 <ul class="blog-category-list"> 645 646</ul> 647 </section> 648 <section> 649 <h4>Tags</h4> 650 <ul class="blog-tag-list"> 651 652 <li><a href="/blog/tag/blue-frog-property-management">Blue Frog Property Management</a></li> 653 654 <li><a href="/blog/tag/companies">companies</a></li> 655 656 <li><a href="/blog/tag/company">company</a></li> 657 658 <li><a href="/blog/tag/emotional-support-animals">Emotional Support Animals</a></li> 659 660 <li><a href="/blog/tag/esa">ESA</a></li> 661 662</ul> 663 </section> 664 <section> 665 <h4>Authors</h4> 666 <ul class="blog-author-list"> 667 668 <li> 669 <a href="/blog/author/nick-malesevich"> 670 <div class="author-image"><img class="lazyload" data-src="/images/team/Nick-Malesevich.webp" alt="Nick Malesevich"></div> 671 <div class="author-name">Nick Malesevich</div> 672 </a> 673 </li> 674 675</ul> 676 </section> 677 </aside> 678 </div> 679<!-- END .blog-container --> 680 681 682</body> 683 </section> 684 </main> 685<footer class="footer"> 686 <section> 687 <div class="container-fluid"> 688 <div class="footer-frog"> 689 <img src="/images/blue-frog.webp" alt="Blue Frog Photo" class="blue-frog lazyload"> 690 </div> 691 <div class="footer-top"> 692 <!-- <img src="/images/blue-frog.webp" alt="Blue Frog Photo" class="blue-frog lazyload"> --> 693 <div class="row"> 694 <div class="col-xxl-8 px-0 first-col"> 695 <div class="footer-top__left"> 696 <div class="row g-5"> 697 <div class="col-xl-5 col-md-12"> 698 <h3>Our Offices</h3> 699 <ul class="list-unstyled footer-offices"> 700 <li class="office"> 701 <h4>Green Bay Office</h4> 702 <div class="footer__address"><address itemprop="address" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress"> 703 <span class="street-address" itemprop="streetAddress">1960 August St.</span> 704 <span class="locality" itemprop="addressLocality">Green Bay</span>, <span class="region" itemprop="addressRegion">WI</span> <span class="postal-code" itemprop="postalCode">54302</span> 705 </address></div> 706 </li> 707 <li class="office"> 708 <h4>Oshkosh Office</h4> 709 <div class="footer__address"><address itemprop="address" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress"> 710 <span class="street-address" itemprop="streetAddress">1081 South Washburn St.</span> 711 <span class="locality" itemprop="addressLocality">Oshkosh</span>, <span class="region" itemprop="addressRegion">WI</span> <span class="postal-code" itemprop="postalCode">54904</span> 712 </address></div> 713 </li> 714 <li class="office"> 715 <h4>Sheboygan Office</h4> 716 <div class="footer__address"><address itemprop="address" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress"> 717 <span class="street-address" itemprop="streetAddress">1136 Indiana Ave</span> 718 <span class="locality" itemprop="addressLocality">Sheboygan</span>, <span class="region" itemprop="addressRegion">WI</span> <span class="postal-code" itemprop="postalCode">53081</span> 719 </address></div> 720 </li> 721 <li class="office"> 722 <h4>West Bend Area Office</h4> 723 <div class="footer__address"><address itemprop="address" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress"> 724 <span class="street-address" itemprop="streetAddress">516 Shepherd’s Drive</span> 725 <span class="locality" itemprop="addressLocality">West Bend</span>, <span class="region" itemprop="addressRegion">WI</span> <span class="postal-code" itemprop="postalCode">53090</span> 726 </address></div> 727 </li> 728 </ul> 729 <p class="mb-0">
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822<script> 823 var tipuesearch = {"pages": [ 824 825 {"title": "Boosting ROI in Green Bay: Creative Renovations That Attract Top Tenants", "text": "What kind of renovations might make your Green Bay rental property more attractive to the best tenants?&nbsp;We have some ideas for updates and upgrades that won&rsquo;t only attract qualified tenants, but also increase your rental value and your long-term ROI.&nbsp;The Green Bay rental market is competitive, and standing out is about much more than how much square footage you can offer or what your precise location happens to be. Tenants are looking for property owners to deliver real value.&nbsp;As property owners look for smarter strategies to increase returns, creative renovations are emerging as a powerful tool to boost ROI while attracting high-quality, long-term renters. From sustainable upgrades to space-maximizing layouts, the right improvements not only elevate a property&#39;s appeal but also command higher rents and reduce turnover. That&rsquo;s the direction in which we&rsquo;re taking you.Green Bay, with its mix of historic homes and evolving urban spaces, offers a unique landscape where well-planned renovations can dramatically shift a property&rsquo;s profitability. But success means much more than simply pouring money into flashy upgrades. Real success comes when you understand what tenants want and you can align those desires with smart, cost-effective changes.&nbsp;Maybe you&rsquo;ll add in-unit laundry, create a functional home office space, or upgrade insulation for Wisconsin&rsquo;s harsh winters. Whatever you do, the key lies in enhancements that offer comfort, convenience, and long-term value.&nbsp;So let&rsquo;s explore renovation ideas that meet the needs of Green Bay&rsquo;s rental market. These are improvements that go beyond the cosmetic to deliver true return on investment while attracting tenants who are willing to pay a premium for quality, sustainability, and thoughtful design. Quick Look: Good tenants prioritize space and layout, ease and efficiency, outdoor space, and security.Make smart choices when it comes to deciding on renovations.Home office nooks and built-in storage solutions are great ideas.Make it easy for tenants to do laundry and own pets.Look for ways to incorporate energy efficiency and smart home tech.Outdoor living spaces and indoor soundproofing are creative ways to attract tenants and increase ROI.What Are Good Tenants Looking for in Green Bay?When it comes to attracting high-quality tenants in Green Bay, Wisconsin, you need to do more than offer a place to live.&nbsp;You need to provide a lifestyle that aligns with the expectations of today&rsquo;s well-qualified renters.&nbsp;The best tenants, the kind who pay on time, take care of the property, and renew their leases, are often selective about where they choose to live. They want a rental that supports their day-to-day needs, reflects their values, and fits their long-term goals. Location matters. It always will. Here are the things that also matter, and this is what smart owners are thinking about when they decide on creative renovations.Safety and Security are High on Tenant Lists Tenants want to feel secure in their homes, and they often evaluate neighborhoods based on crime statistics. They evaluate rental homes based on lighting, security systems, and overall upkeep. The peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained, quiet area can make or break a tenant&rsquo;s decision to rent. Modern Conveniences Matter While luxury features aren&rsquo;t always expected, the best tenants do look for basics that make life easier. In-unit laundry, energy-efficient appliances, off-street parking, and reliable internet access are often considered non-negotiable. In a climate like Green Bay&rsquo;s, features like efficient heating, proper insulation, and functional windows are necessities.Space and Layout are Important Since the pandemic, many renters are more sensitive around their spaces. They&rsquo;
825re seeking flexible floor plans that allow for home offices, workout areas, or guest rooms. Even in smaller homes or apartments, smart use of space is highly valued. A finished basement or an extra bedroom can be a major draw.Outdoor Space is Highly Prized Tenants, and especially families or pet owners, are often drawn to properties that include yards, patios, or balconies. Green Bay&rsquo;s seasonal beauty makes outdoor living space especially appealing during spring, summer, and fall.&nbsp; Cleanliness and maintenance will also speak volumes about whether a good tenant is going to find your rental property in Green Bay attractive. The best tenants are observant; they take note of how well a property is maintained before they move in. Signs of care, such as fresh paint, clean floors, and working appliances, suggest that a landlord is attentive and responsive, which is exactly what great tenants want in a rental relationship.In Green Bay&rsquo;s evolving rental market, the tenants who make the best long-term residents are looking for homes that offer comfort, practicality, and a sense of connection to the community. When a rental checks those boxes, it doesn&rsquo;t stay on the market for long.This is your goal when choosing renovations.Choosing the Renovations that Increase ROI: How to Do ItHow do you know which renovations are the right renovations?Deciding which projects to invest in requires a strategic approach that balances cost, market demand, and long-term return on investment (ROI). This is an endeavor that will make your property look and perform better, but there&rsquo;s more to it than that. You also want to make smart, targeted improvements that:&nbsp;Enhance rental valueReduce turnoverAttract quality tenants who stay longer and take better care of the homeTo start, landlords should evaluate their property&rsquo;s current performance:&nbsp;What is the vacancy rate?&nbsp;How long do tenants typically stay?&nbsp;Are rent prices aligned with the local market?&nbsp;Understanding these metrics helps clarify whether an investment is needed, and if so, what scale of renovation is justifiable.Creative renovations go beyond the basics, so owners must weigh each idea against potential ROI. This involves forecasting whether an upgrade will allow for a meaningful rent increase, lower maintenance costs, or improve tenant satisfaction. For example, adding features that reduce utility expenses may not be flashy but can appeal to cost-conscious tenants, leading to longer leases and fewer turnovers.Another important factor is understanding the target tenant demographic. What appeals to young professionals working remotely might not work for families or retirees. Creative renovations should be intentional and aligned with who is likely to rent the property in a specific neighborhood or price range.Lastly, landlords should consider opportunity cost. Every dollar spent on one renovation is a dollar not spent elsewhere, so compare multiple options side-by-side. Use data, not gut instinct. Look at comparable rentals, consult with local property managers (like your experts here at Blue Frog Property Management), and estimate both short- and long-term financial impacts before committing to an upgrade.In the end, thoughtful renovation decisions are based on how improvements enhance overall property value, reduce operational headaches, and support consistent, long-term profitability, not just curb appeal.The Creative Renovations We Recommend for Green Bay Investment Properties&nbsp;Ultimately, the right renovations will depend on your property and your investment goals.&nbsp;The question of which renovations to make will be better answered if we can take a look at your specific property and judge how it&rsquo;s best positioned in the market. But here are the best recommendations we can make, as a whole, when you&rsquo;re looking for creative ways to increase your ROI and attract the best tenants. These won&rsquo;t work for every rental property. But one or two of them might be the best options for you.Smart Home FeaturesTenants increasingly prioritize convenience, security, and energy s
825avings. Smart home features like keyless entry systems, smart thermostats, and app-controlled lighting are relatively affordable upgrades that give your property a modern edge.Smart locks allow for easier tenant turnover and greater security.Smart thermostats reduce utility bills and give tenants better climate control. Wi-Fi enabled lighting or plugs add a tech-forward feel that appeals to younger professionals.These additions can often justify a slight rent increase while positioning your unit as more desirable than others in the neighborhood.Built-In Storage SolutionsStorage is one of the most overlooked but valued features in rental properties. Creative built-in storage helps tenants stay organized and makes smaller spaces more functional. Consider under-stair drawers, window-seat storage, and custom closet shelving, which can transform awkward spaces into usable ones.In kitchens, pull-out pantry drawers and vertical storage racks can be extremely attractive to tenants. Your residents are more likely to stay longer when the space is designed to fit real-life living, especially in smaller or older homes where storage is often lacking.Dedicated Home Office NooksWith more people working from home at least part of the time, a dedicated workspace is more than just a luxury for a lot of tenants. While not every rental can offer a full office, creative nooks can serve the same purpose. Convert a corner, alcove, or closet into a functional office space with built-in desks and shelves. Install outlets and charging ports to make it plug-and-play. Add lighting and a window if possible (natural light is a huge perk for workspaces).Even smaller properties can offer an &ldquo;office-ready&rdquo; space, giving tenants one more reason to choose your rental home over another.Energy-Efficient Windows and InsulationGreen Bay&rsquo;s long, cold winters make heating costs a major concern for renters. While energy-efficient upgrades might not be flashy, they&rsquo;re among the most financially smart.Triple-pane windowsSpray foam insulationWeatherized doorsAll of these things can drastically cut heating bills, and offering a more comfortable and cost-effective living environment makes your rental more appealing, especially for long-term tenants. And here&rsquo;s a bonus: you may also qualify for local or federal incentives when making energy-efficient upgrades.Multipurpose Mudrooms or Entry AreasMaybe you never thought about mudrooms as being important in a rental property, but wouldn&rsquo;t you love to have one if you were renting a home? In a climate like Green Bay&rsquo;s, where snow and mud are part of life, a dedicated entry space can be a huge draw. Think built-in benches, coat hooks, and cubbies, which offer practical storage and help keep the main living areas cleaner. Consider using durable materials like tile flooring and moisture-resistant walls in these areas.If space allows, converting part of a hallway or even a back entrance into a mini mudroom can greatly improve the day-to-day living experience for tenants.Pet-Friendly EnhancementsPet-friendly rentals attract a broader pool of tenants, so instead of simply allowing pets, rental property owners have an opportunity to make improvements that will cater to them.&nbsp;Pet doors can be installed for easy access for dogs and cats.Fenced-in outdoor areas can keep pets secure.Mudroom showers allow for easy clean-up after outdoor play or walks.Scratch-resistant flooring protects your investmentWashable wall finishes will minimize pet damage and wear and tear.Think about pet nooks under stairs or near laundry areas for pet beds and litter boxes.Landlords who proactively accommodate pets often see longer tenant stays and reduced vacancy periods. Your rental property will be more attractive to pet owners looking for homes.Laundry UpgradesLaundry is becoming more important to tenants than ever. If your rental property doesn&#39;t already have in-unit laundry, adding it can be one of the best ROI-generating renovations you make. But even if it does, you can take it a step further. Add high-efficiency, stackable units in smaller spaces. A lot of new construction rental homes are providing dedicated laundry rooms. You can compete by creating a full laundry &ldquo;zone&rdquo; with built-in cabinets, folding tables, and hanging racks. Include sound insulation if units are near bedrooms or living areas.Tenants pay a premium for the convenience of modern, in-home laundry. Making this area functional and attractive adds a surprising amount of value.Outdoor Living UpgradesGreen Bay&rsquo;s summers are beautiful, and renters love the chance to enjoy the outdoors. Thoughtful exterior improvements can dramatically increase your rental&rsquo;s appeal. Install decks, patios, or fire pits to create a social outdoor space. Add privacy fencing, string lights, and weatherproof furniture for a &ldquo;ready-to-use&rdquo; vibe. Small balconies can be made more appealing with planters, hooks for hanging chairs, or bistro-style lighting.Outdoor space has become more important over the last few years, especially to tenants with families or pets. Even small upgrades can create a sense of retreat.Soundproofing and Privacy EnhancementsRenters in multifamily units or duplexes often cite noise as one of their top complaints. Soundproofing measures can set your property apart and provide a creative renovation that really counts.&nbsp;Install sound-dampening insulation in shared walls and ceilings.Use solid-core doors and weather stripping to reduce hallway noise.In multifamily units, privacy-enhancing landscaping or fencing between outdoor areas also improves tenant satisfaction.Quiet, private space
825s attract respectful, long-term tenants who are willing to pay more for peace of mind.Tech-Ready Charging and Connectivity SolutionsToday&rsquo;s modern tenants have high expectations when it comes to seamless connectivity, especially in homes with multiple devices or remote workers. Your property will definitely stand apart in a crowded market when you install USB outlets, hard-wired Ethernet connections, and central charging stations in key areas. Ensure strong Wi-Fi coverage throughout the home with repeaters or mesh network support. Add a small tech shelf or command center near the entryway for devices and keys.A property that supports the digital lifestyle of modern tenants is a subtle but powerful value-add.Water-Conserving and Sustainable FixturesLet&rsquo;s talk about sustainability and efficiency. More and more tenants are looking for ways to live responsibly, and green-minded tenants are more likely to stay in homes that align with their values. This does not have to be a political statement, but a business decision. More tenants in the marketplace are looking for things like low-flow toilets, aerated faucets, and water-saving showerheads. You can even take a step further and install rain barrels or drought-resistant landscaping to reduce exterior water usage.These changes can lower utility bills and help your property appeal to an increasingly eco-conscious tenant pool.Custom Furniture or Built-In Units (for Smaller Spaces)In smaller rentals, creative furniture solutions can make a huge difference. Consider built-in dining benches, Murphy beds, or fold-away desks to maximize space and functionality. Modular or built-in shelving systems can provide space-saving storage without clutter. Even offering a furnished option with high-quality pieces can attract corporate renters or short-term professionals willing to pay a premium.So these are some of our best ideas.&nbsp;Creative renovations are more than aesthetic upgrades. We believe they are strategic investments in tenant satisfaction, retention, and long-term profitability. In Green Bay&rsquo;s rental market, standing out takes more than just surface-level improvements. The most valuable renovations are the ones that enhance how tenants live, not just how the property looks.Let&rsquo;s talk about which upgrades and renovations will benefit you and your property the most. Contact us at Blue Frog Property Management. We know that thinking beyond the basics and focusing on high-impact, lifestyle-oriented upgrades can help landlords dramatically boost their ROI while building a portfolio that consistently attracts top-tier renters. The best tenants are looking for homes that feel thoughtful, functional, and ahead of the curve, and with the right renovations, your property can be exactly that.", "image": "/images/blog/Boosting ROI in Green Bay Creative Renovations That Attract Top Tenants min.png", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/boosting-roi-creative-renovations-that-attract-top-tenants"}, 826 827 {"title": "The Ultimate Guide to Tenant Screening: Finding Quality Renters in Sheboygan", "text": "Are you placing the most qualified residents into your Sheboygan rental property?If you have lately needed to deal with late payments, property damage, or tenants who are uncommunicative and unresponsive, it&rsquo;s possible that your tenant screening systems could use a tweak.&nbsp;We know it&rsquo;s not always easy. Digging into someone&rsquo;s background can feel pretty invasive, and there are fair housing laws that need to be followed. But you need to know if the applicant who wants to move into your property has a record of on-time rent payments, responsible property care, and positive rental experiences.&nbsp;As Sheboygan property management experts, we are here to help you find quality renters. We&rsquo;ve been managing properties professionally for many years, and at Blue Frog Property Management, we have developed a set of screening systems and best practices that efficiently and effectively identify the best tenants for your property.&nbsp;Here&rsquo;s your ultimate guide to tenant screening, and some good strategies for attracting, placing, and retaining the best tenants you can. Our Screening Summary:Know how to distinguish a good tenant from a bad tenant.Establish standard rental criteria for tenant screening.Evaluate applications for c
827ompleteness and for signatures.Check credit and income.Run background checks and look for prior evictions.Contact previous landlordsApprove or deny the application and send the appropriate communication.Who is a Well-Qualified Tenant?A qualified tenant is the cornerstone of a successful rental experience. We can tell you that the ideal tenant is more than just someone who can afford the rent. It&#39;s someone who respects the lease, the property, and the ongoing relationship with their landlord. A good tenant pays rent on time, communicates openly, and adheres to the terms of their lease without issue. They treat the rental property as if it were their own, keeping it clean, reporting maintenance issues promptly, and avoiding damage beyond normal wear and tear.Responsible tenants also respect neighbors, avoid disruptive behavior, and help maintain a positive atmosphere in multi-unit buildings. They&#39;re reliable, financially stable, and transparent during the rental application process. Whether renting for one lease term or several years, a good tenant brings peace of mind to property owners and reduces both stress and costs.&nbsp;Beware the unqualified tenant, who can quickly turn a rental investment into a financial and legal headache. Frequent late payments, lease violations, and property neglect are just a few of the red flags. In some cases, a bad tenant may cause costly damage or require eviction proceedings, stressful and expensive processes that no landlord wants to face.This distinction explains why screening is so important. Identifying the right tenant before you sign a lease can prevent future issues and help ensure a smooth rental experience.Establishing Standard Rental Criteria for Sheboygan RentalsEvery Sheboygan rental property owner will have different standards when it comes to who they want in their property, but there are also the obvious consistencies. As long as you&rsquo;re complying with fair housing rules, you can set up whatever standards you think are important for your tenant to meet. Finding a tenant with a perfect credit score is unlikely. If that&rsquo;s your criteria, you&rsquo;re likely going to face a long vacancy. But, you can establish a minimum credit score so tenants will understand whether they&rsquo;re qualified before they even apply.&nbsp;Here&rsquo;s what else you should be looking at, and why.Debt and Credit A lot of owners have a credit score that serves as a cut-off when it comes to screening applications. You&rsquo;ll definitely want to check credit scores before you approve a tenant, but make your standards fit the tenant pool. That doesn&rsquo;t mean you should lower your credit standards too much. Someone who cannot manage debt and money responsibly could be a risk as a tenant who is responsible for monthly rent payments and utility bills.&nbsp; Establish a threshold and check the full credit report for concerns such as money owed to former landlords, property managers, or apartment communities. If they haven&rsquo;t paid their housing debts previously, can you be sure they&rsquo;ll keep up with the money they owe you? You don&rsquo;t want to see any delinquent housing-related accounts, either, such as utilities, cable, etc. If there&rsquo;s a lengthy history of court judgments or evictions, you may want to deny that application.&nbsp;Income Standards&nbsp; For income, most property management best practices say that you should look for someone who earns at least three times the rental amount.&nbsp; You can use this best practice or you can establish your own income standards. It&rsquo;s important to know the market. When incomes have been stagnant for a while but rents have been increasing, that threshold of three times the monthly rent might be difficult for otherwise well-qualified applicants to meet. Talk to us about the neighborhood you&rsquo;re renting in and your rental value. We can help you establish the right rent-to-income ratio. Always verify that tenants earn what they say they earn. Ask for proof of income through pay stubs, employment c
827ontracts, or by calling employers yourself. If you&rsquo;re working with a retired tenant or someone who is self-employed, you can ask for documentation in the form of tax filings and bank statements.&nbsp;Rental Reference Checks Reference checks can be an important step in the screening process. We know that a lot of landlords don&rsquo;t love the idea of making phone calls or sending emails to ask about a former tenant, but those current or former landlords can give you a clear understanding of how your prospective tenant behaves in the property they rent.&nbsp; Ask the former landlord to confirm the dates of residency and the amount of rent that was paid. Find out if the entire security deposit was returned and if proper notice was given before that tenant moved out. You&rsquo;ll also want to know if rent was paid on time, and how quickly the tenant caught up if it was ever late.&nbsp; If the&nbsp;tenant had pets, ask if there were any issues with those animals. Find out if there was property damage left behind when the tenant moved out. Then, ask if they&rsquo;d be willing to rent to the tenant again. That one question and answer should tell you everything you need to know. The Importance of Pre-Screening You can begin to gather some good information before you even get to the point that you&rsquo;re collecting applications and reviewing the results of your screening. When you&rsquo;re showing your property, get to know the prospective tenants a little bit. Ask when they&rsquo;re planning to move and why they&rsquo;re looking for a new home. You don&rsquo;t want to leave your move-in ready property vacancy for too long, so you&rsquo;re looking for people who are ready to move within a few weeks or a month. Ask about their budget. This is a good opportunity to talk about the monthly rent. You can explain what your income requirements are, and ask if they meet those standards. Ask about any prior evictions. This tells them that you&rsquo;ll be checking. Discuss whether they have pets, and what kind they are. Make sure you can clearly explain your pet policy.&nbsp; We have saved time and effort by only showing properties to tenants who meet our standard criteria and pass our initial pre-screening questions.&nbsp;In our experience, having these standards in place during the screening process establishes accountability and protects our owners against the risk of tenants who can&rsquo;t or won&rsquo;t pay rent.How to Move Through an Effective Tenant Screening Process&nbsp;You&rsquo;ve established your screening criteria and you have some tenants asking about how to apply.What do you do to make sure you&rsquo;re placing the best possible tenants?Here&rsquo;s the process for screening those potential residents.&nbsp;Step 1: Review the Application ThoroughlyStart by reviewing the rental application in detail. Look for completeness, consistency, and red flags. Did your applicants leave any sections blank? Are the dates of employment and residence history logical? Do their income sources line up with your criteria?Watch for inconsistencies such as job timelines that don&rsquo;t add up or gaps in residence history. While these aren&rsquo;t automatic disqualifiers, they warrant clarification. Make a note of anything that seems unclear or questionable. You&rsquo;ll want to follow up during the reference checks or tenant interview.Step 2: Run a Credit CheckA credit report provides a clear picture of how financially responsible the applicant is. You&rsquo;re not just looking at the score. As we mentioned earlier, you&rsquo;re looking at their habits.Here&rsquo;s what to focus on when examining credit:Payment history: Do they pay bills on time?Credit utilization: Are they overextended?Derogatory marks: Are there collections, charge-offs, or bankruptcies?Rental-related accounts: Any unpaid utility bills or past due rent?A solid credit report shows reliability. If there are negative marks, context matters. A one-time medical collection is different from a pattern of unpaid debts.&nbsp;Remember that not every credit check will show past evictions. You&rsquo;ll want to run a national eviction search, which could require resources that you don&rsquo;t have as an independent landlord. Many rental property owners use tenant screening services that provide a comprehensive credit summary tailored for rentals, not just a raw score. You can also reach out to us at Blue Frog Property Management. We have some excellent te
827chnology in place that makes credit pulls easy.&nbsp;Step 3: Verify Income and EmploymentNext, you want to confirm that the applicant can afford the rent, and that their stated income is accurate. You&rsquo;ve established your income standards, and now you have to confirm that they earn enough. Ask for recent pay stubs. The last two should be enough. &nbsp;If the applicant is self-employed, collect a W-2 or tax return. Look for a signed offer letter if they&rsquo;re starting a new job.&nbsp;Step 4: Contact Previous LandlordsReferences from prior landlords are one of the most valuable screening tools if you ask the right questions. We recommend that you call or email the two most recent landlords. The current one may sugarcoat the truth if they&rsquo;re eager for the tenant to leave. Ask all of the questions we mentioned about rental payments and property care. Confirm dates of residence and rental amounts paid. Be alert for vague or overly brief responses. If a landlord seems hesitant or won&rsquo;t provide any information, that may be a red flag.Step 5: Run a Background CheckA criminal background check helps you identify any history that could pose a risk to your property or other residents. Be sure to follow fair housing laws and only consider offenses that are relevant and recent. Things to look for:Felony convictions, especially violent crimesRecent drug-related offensesProperty damage or vandalismSex offender registry statusUse a reputable screening service or contact us for our resources, and make sure your background check policies are applied consistently to all applicants. In Wisconsin and many other states, there are limits on how background information can be used. Landlords cannot use a standard that excludes all applicants with any conviction record, must avoid using arrests without convictions, and should consider each applicant&#39;s individual circumstances when making decisions, rather than relying on discriminatory, overarching screening standards. Be sure you understand the law and avoid blanket policies that could be discriminatory.Step 6: Interview the Applicant (Optional but Valuable)While not always necessary, a short phone or in-person conversation can be incredibly useful, especially if you did not get a chance to meet your applicant during the screening process (more and more owners are turning to self-showings, thanks to lockbox and keypad technology). If you have follow-up questions from the application or reference checks, you&rsquo;ll definitely want to schedule some time to talk.During this conversation, you can assess their communication style and professionalism, whether their story aligns with their application, and address any concerns you want to clarify directly.Step 7: Make the Decision and Send the Approval or DenialOnce you&rsquo;ve completed all parts of the screening, decide whether to approve or deny the application. If approved, notify the applicant and send a lease for review and signature. You&rsquo;ll want to collect the move-in funds, answer questions, and settle on a move-in date.If denied, provide the required legal notice. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), if your decision was based on a credit report or background check, you must send an adverse action notice explaining the reason and how they can request a copy of the report.It&rsquo;s best to stay factual and avoid getting into subjective reasons. Use a standard template and make sure you&rsquo;re in full compliance with Wisconsin rental laws.What Does Fair Housing Say About Tenant Screening in Sheboygan?Fair housing laws play a vital role in the tenant screening process for rental property owners in Wisconsin. These laws are designed to ensure that every applicant has an equal opportunity to secure housing, free from discrimination. When screening tenants, it&rsquo;s essential for landlords to understand how fair housing regulations apply and how to avoid unintentional violations. It&rsquo;s easy to think you&rsquo;d never discriminate, but even the slightest inconsistency can raise questions.&nbsp;Under both federal and Wisconsin state law, it is illegal to discriminate against applicants based on protected characteristics. These include race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, familial status, sexual orientation, marital status, lawful source of income, and age. That means landlords cannot refuse to rent, impose different terms, or apply screening standards differently for one group over another.A common mistake some landlords make is using subjective language or inconsistent criteria. For example, saying an applicant wasn&rsquo;t the &ldquo;right fit&rdquo; or choosing a tenant based on a &ldquo;gut feeling&rdquo; can be problematic if it&rsquo;s not supported by objective data. Always use consistent screening procedures, apply the same criteria to every applicant, and document your decisions.Wisconsin landlords must also be careful with income-related decisions. Rejecting applicants who use housing vouchers or other legal income sources may be considered discriminatory.What we&rsquo;re saying is this: fair housing compliance is not just about avoiding lawsuits. It&rsquo;s about creating a transparent, lawful, and respectful rental process for everyone. A fair, consistent tenant screening process is your best defense against unintentional violations and helps ensure you&#39;re selecting qualified tenants the right way.Tenant screening can feel like a lot of work, and it is. But it&rsquo;s absolutely necessary. A thorough, consistent process helps you avoid costly mistakes, protects your investment, and builds a
827stronger landlord-tenant relationship from the start.Don&rsquo;t forget that placing good tenants starts even before the screening process. First, you have to attract qualified tenants, and the best way to do that is with an attractive, well-maintained property, a fair and consistent rental value, and strategic marketing that really grabs the attention of the best tenants looking for homes.Tenant screening is much easier and more efficient when you work with our Sheboygan property management team. You&rsquo;ll know we always stay within the law, treat all applicants equally, and keep detailed records of every step. With our screening process, you&rsquo;ll find tenants who treat your property with care, pay on time, and stay for the long term. Contact us at Blue Frog Property Management.&nbsp;", "image": "/images/blog/The Ultimate Guide to Tenant Screening min.png", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-tenant-screening-finding-quality-renters"}, 828 829 {"title": "Diversify Your Portfolio: Exploring Investment Opportunities in Fox Valley Real Estate", "text": "Are you looking for new investment opportunities that will diversify your portfolio and deliver profitable outcomes?&nbsp;We invite you to consider Fox Valley real estate, in Wisconsin.&nbsp;It&rsquo;s understandable, while so many investors are constantly looking at high-demand urban centers for their next investments, but if you&rsquo;re interested in ways to balance risk and ensure long-term growth, a stable and emerging region like Fox Valley can be an equally lucrative strategy.&nbsp;Wisconsin&rsquo;s Fox Valley is a vibrant and growing market that offers numerous benefits for those looking to expand their rental property investments.Located between Green Bay and Milwaukee, the Fox Valley is home to a diverse population and a strong local economy, making it an ideal location for residential rental properties. With a combination of low property costs, high rental demand, and a healthy job market, investors can find an attractive balance of affordability and potential returns.We can also tell you, from our experience as Fox Valley property management experts, that the region has a relatively strong inventory of diverse properties, from single-family homes to multi-unit complexes, making it versatile for different investment strategies.By diversifying into rental properties in the Fox Valley, investors not only spread their risk across different geographies, but also tap into an underserved market with substantial growth potential. Whether you&#39;re an experienced investor continuing to grow your portfolio or a new investor who is just getting started, the Fox Valley presents an exciting opportunity to bolster your real estate portfolio. Our Summary:Fox Valley real estate investors are more affordable than in other markets.&nbsp;High demand for rental housing means stable occupancy and recurring rental income.Growth and infrastructure in Fox Valley supports local real estate investments.A 1031 exchange can be especially beneficial to investors from out-of-state.Introducing Wisconsin&rsquo;s Fox Valley&nbsp;Not a lot of real estate investors are familiar with Fox Valley and its opportunities, so let&rsquo;s start with an introduction.Wisconsin&#39;s Fox Valley is a dynamic region located in the heart of the state, encompassing cities like:&nbsp;AppletonOshkoshNeenahMenashaKaukaunaIt sits along the Fox River, stretching from Green Bay in the north down to the outskirts of Milwaukee in the south. This strategic location places the Fox Valley at the crossroads of some of Wisconsin&rsquo;s most significant economic and cultural hubs. The region is easily accessible, with major highways like Interstate 41 and U.S. Highway 41 running through it, making travel to and from the area straightforward.&nbsp;Appleton, the largest city in the Fox Valley, is about 100 miles north of Milwaukee and 120 miles south of Green Bay, providing convenient access to both larger urban centers. Whether you&rsquo;re coming from the east or west, the area is well-connected by both regional airports and the state&rsquo;s extensive road network.&nbsp;The Fox Valley is not only central geographically but also economically, serving as a key location for industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and education. With a blend of suburban charm and access to urban amenities, it&rsquo;s quickly becoming a sought-after destination for both residents and investors, and we&rsquo;re excited to tell you more about what&rsquo;s possible in this growing and accessible real estate market.Why Should Investors Consider Fox Valley for Rental Real Estate? Consider strong returns without the volatility of larger metropolitan areas.&nbsp;If you&rsquo;re an investor who is seeking growth, stability, and affordability, Wisconsin&#39;s Fox Valley presents a compelling case. Here&#39;s why this region should be on every investor&#39;s radar, whether you&#39;re local or out of state.Affordability with Strong Appreciation PotentialOne of the primary draws of the Fox Valley is its affordability. Property prices in cities like Appleton, Oshkosh, and Neenah are significantly lower than those in Wisconsin&#39;s larger metropolitan areas, like Madison or Milwaukee. For example, as of recent years, the median home price in Appleton hovers well below the national average, giving investors the opportunity to acquire properties at a relatively low cost. This is especially appealing for investors looking to scale quickly without committing large amounts of capital upfront.At the same time, the region has shown consistent, steady appreciation in property values. While not experiencing the rapid, sometimes unsustainable price jumps seen in larger markets, the Fox Valley has proven resilient, with steady year-over-year increases in home values. This combination of affordability and long-term growth potential makes it an attractive market for both seasoned investors and newcomers looking to get started without taking on excessive risk.Strong Rental Demand and Rental YieldsThe demand for rental properties in the Fox Valley has been consistently strong, driven by a combination of factors such as:&nbsp;An increasing populationA robust job marketThe presence of regional universitiesCities like Appleton and Oshkosh have a diverse mix of renters, from college students and young professionals to families and retirees, ensuring that properties are not only rented quickly but also attract long-term tenants.Rental yields in the Fox Valley tend to be higher than
829in larger cities, particularly when you factor in the lower cost of purchasing property. With rents rising steadily and a favorable balance between property costs and rental income, investors can achieve a healthy cash flow from rental properties. The region also offers a mix of property types, from single-family homes to multi-family units, allowing investors to diversify their portfolio within the same market.Economic Stability and Job GrowthA robust local economy is critical for real estate investment, and the Fox Valley&rsquo;s economy is diverse and stable. The region has seen steady job growth across several key industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and technology. Major employers like Kimberly-Clark, ThedaCare, and Oshkosh Corporation provide a strong employment base, supporting a steady influx of workers and their families to the region. This economic stability ensures consistent demand for both rental properties and homes for sale, giving investors a sense of security in their investments.It&rsquo;s also encouraging that unemployment rates remain consistently below the national average. This is a good sign that the Fox Valley is not only growing but thriving. As more people move to the region for work, the demand for housing, both rental and owned, continues to rise, providing a solid foundation for real estate investment.Investor-Friendly Tax EnvironmentWisconsin offers a favorable tax environment for real estate investors. The state&rsquo;s property taxes are relatively low compared to other regions, allowing investors to keep more of their rental income. Additionally, Wisconsin has a variety of tax incentives and credits, including opportunities for property tax exemptions in certain development zones. For out-of-state investors, this can mean a more favorable long-term financial outlook, especially when combined with the lower purchase prices and strong rental yields.Growth and Infrastructure InvestmentThe Fox Valley is not standing still. Local governments are investing heavily in infrastructure and urban development, making the region even more attractive for future investments. Whether it&#39;s improvements to transportation, public services, or efforts to revitalize downtown areas, the region is positioning itself for sustained growth. As these developments unfold, they will only serve to increase property values and further enhance the area&rsquo;s appeal to both tenants and investors.There&rsquo;s also something that&rsquo;s more difficult to quantify, and that&rsquo;s the Fox Valley charm. This area has a strong sense of community and a high quality of life. As more people look for affordable living in places with easy access to amenities and nature, the Fox Valley will continue to attract new residents, further fueling demand for real estate.Fox Valley stands out as a real estate investment market with strong fundamentals and ample opportunities.&nbsp;Diversify your portfolio here.Unique Opportunities for Out-of-State Investors: Leveraging a 1031 Exchange to Buy in Fox ValleyWhy not get more for your money?Wealth isn&#39;t just built through acquisition. It&rsquo;s built through strategy. One of the most powerful tools for maximizing returns and building long-term wealth is the 1031 exchange, a provision in the U.S. tax code that allows investors to defer capital gains taxes by reinvesting the proceeds from a property sale into a &quot;like-kind&quot; property.For investors holding high-value assets in expensive markets like California or Washington State or New York, the 1031 exchange represents a golden opportunity to not only defer taxes but also diversify into more profitable, stable, and growth-oriented markets like Wisconsin&rsquo;s Fox Valley.What Is a 1031 Exchange?A 1031 exchange, named after Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code, allows investors to sell one investment property and reinvest the proceeds into another without paying capital gains taxes at the time of the sale. This deferral strategy enables investors to keep more of their money working for them, compounding returns over time.To qualify, the exchange must meet specific requirements:Both properties must be &ldquo;like-kind,&rdquo; meaning they are held for business or investment purposes (not personal use).The replacement property must be identified within 45 days of the sale.The purchase must be completed within 180 days.A qualified intermediary must handle the exchange to comply with IRS rules.This powerful tax strategy gives investors the flexibility to reallocate capital into markets or property types that better match their current investment goals.If you don&rsquo;t want to put up the capital required to buy a property in Fox Valley, you can always leverage a property that you already have.Here&rsquo;s why it makes sense to move capital from places like California or New York into the Fox Valley via a 1031 exchange:Lower Purchase Prices = Greater Buying Power Let&rsquo;s say you own a duplex in San Jose worth $1.6 million. After accounting for fees and debt payoff, you walk away with $1 million in equity. In San Jose, reinvesting that amount would barely get you another similar property, with maybe a 3&ndash;4% cap rate. But in the Fox Valley? That same $1 million could be used to acquire 3&ndash;5 cash-flowing rental properties, including single-family homes or multi-family buildings with 7&ndash;9% cap rates. That&rsquo;s instant diversification and significantly higher income. Improved Cash Flow and ROI Fox Valley properties tend to cash flow better due to the combination of low acquisition costs and steady rental income. Whether you&#39;re investing in student housing near the University of Wisconsin&ndash;Oshkosh or single-family homes in Appleton&rsquo;s growing suburbs, demand for rentals remains high across multiple demographics. With cap rates often double those in coastal cities, your monthly income as a landlord increases substantially, creating more predictable and stable returns. Market Stability and Economic Growth The Fox Valley has a diversified and growing economy anchored by healthcare, education, manufacturing, and technology. Major employers like ThedaCare, Oshkosh Corporation, and Kimberly-Clark help supp
829ort a strong middle-class tenant base. Unemployment rates are consistently below the national average, and the area&rsquo;s population has grown steadily over the last decade. This translates to reliable occupancy rates and minimal volatility, which is critical for long-term investment stability. Less Regulation, Easier Management Compared to states like California or New York, Wisconsin has fewer regulatory hurdles for landlords. There are no statewide rent control laws, property taxes are manageable, and landlord-tenant laws are relatively balanced. If you manage your properties remotely or use a local property manager, you&rsquo;ll likely find the regulatory environment more business-friendly, especially if you&rsquo;re used to navigating the bureaucratic red tape of the West Coast. How to Execute a 1031 Exchange into Fox Valley Real EstateReady to get started? Here&rsquo;s a step-by-step look at how you could sell a property from out-of-state and reinvest in Wisconsin&rsquo;s Fox Valley using a 1031 exchange:1. Consult a 1031 Exchange ExpertBefore listing your property, speak with a qualified intermediary (QI) and tax advisor. They will help ensure you follow all IRS guidelines, avoid disqualifications, and select the right timeline for the transaction.2. Sell Your High-Value PropertyList and sell your current investment property. Once under contract, the proceeds from the sale must be transferred directly to your QI, not to you personally, or the exchange will be disqualified.3. Identify Replacement PropertiesWithin 45 days of closing, identify up to three properties (or more under certain IRS rules) in the Fox Valley that you may purchase. Work with a local real estate agent who understands the rental market, zoning regulations, and investment potential.4. Close on New PropertiesWithin 180 days of the initial sale, close on one or more of your identified properties. The QI will transfer funds directly to the sellers.&nbsp;Most investors use the 1031 as a tax move in their own markets. We propose you use it to diversify from an expensive market to one like Fox Valley, where you can make your money work a little bit harder on your behalf.Diversify with the Help of Local Fox Valley Experts&nbsp;For smart real estate investors, geographic diversification has to be part of any growth strategy.It&rsquo;s the best way to protect your portfolio and your profitability, too. Concentrating all your investments in a single market may feel comfortable, especially if it&rsquo;s local, but it also exposes your portfolio to significant regional risks. Economic downturns, natural disasters, shifting regulations, or demographic changes can severely impact property values and rental demand in any one area. By spreading investments across multiple markets, investors reduce exposure to localized volatility while gaining access to new growth opportunities.One of the most effective ways to diversify is by investing in out-of-state or out-of-region markets that offer stronger returns, better cash flow, or lower barriers to entry. As we have established here, markets like Wisconsin&rsquo;s Fox Valley may provide more favorable cap rates and stable rental demand than high-cost, high-regulation areas such as San Francisco or New York. Geographic diversity can also help balance your overall risk profile. Some markets may appreciate rapidly while others provide steady income through high occupancy rates and rent stability.However, succeeding in a market you don&rsquo;t live in requires local expertise.&nbsp;Experienced and local property management is essential. Start with us and think about other local contacts you&rsquo;ll need, such as real estate agents, lenders, and contractors. These relationships become invaluable when you&rsquo;re investing in a new place.&nbsp;Local Fox Valley property managers like us help maintain tenant satisfaction, ensure compliance with regional laws, and handle maintenance issues promptly. Meanwhile, knowledgeable agents and lenders can guide you to the best neighborhoods, properties, and financing options.When you partner with the right local professionals, you gain hyper-local insight that turns distance into an advantage, not a barrier. Our expertise allows you to operate confidently, maximize returns, and scale your portfolio beyond your immediate backyard.In today&rsquo;s competitive and ever-shifting real estate landscape, the smartest investors are not necessarily buying more assets that mirror their existing assets. They&rsquo;re buying smarter, and that means going beyond their home market. Geographic diversification, combined with strong local partnerships, is a winning formula for long-term success.We would be happy to take a look at your existing portfolio and share some ideas about how Fox Valley investment properties could have an impact in what you&rsquo;re trying to achieve. Please contact us at Blue Frog Property Management.&nbsp;", "image": "/images/blog/Diversify Your Portfolio Exploring Investment Opportunities in Fox Valley Real Estate min.png", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/diversify-your-portfolio-exploring-investment-opportunities-in-real-estate"}, 830 831 {"title": "Beyond Basic Maintenance: Protecting Your Green Bay Rental Property from Winter Woes", "text": "Are you ready for winter?Green Bay, Wisconsin is not exactly known for its warm winter days and its lack of snow. It&rsquo;s going to be cold. There will be ice.&nbsp;So how can you best protect your Green Bay rental property? In our experience as property managers, we can tell you that more than basic maintenance is required.&nbsp;Here&rsquo;s a look at what you&rsquo;ll need to do to survive the winter with your property value and condition intact.&nbsp; Our Overview:Seasonal maintenance ahead of winter can help you avoid expensive repairs during winter.&nbsp;Pay attention to roofs, gutters, and insulation.&nbsp;Keep HVAC systems in good condition.&nbsp;Prevent frozen pipes inside and outside.&nbsp;Schedule snow and ice removal.Be mindful of carbon monoxide risks.Educate and support tenants during winter months.&nbsp;Winter in Wisconsin: Your Green Bay Weather ForecastSometimes we come across someone who is new to our part of the country. Or, we&rsquo;re trying to explain seasonal maintenance schedules to&nbsp;investors outside of the area.&nbsp;They&rsquo;re often surprised.&nbsp;Winter in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is a season that commands attention. By late November, the city has likely received more than a little bit of snow already. Trees stand bare, the
831ir branches etched against the gray winter sky, and the lawn and walkways of your rental property are sure to be dusted with powdery frost. It&rsquo;s pretty, but it&rsquo;s also slippery. That can create some risk.Temperatures frequently dip below freezing, which is stressful from a plumbing standpoint. The air outside carries a sharp bite that encourages bundled scarves, mittens, and heavy coats. Responsible landlords will want to make sure that cold air stays outside, and their rental properties are well-insulated so their residents are comfortable.&nbsp;Anyone in Green Bay must become adept at navigating snowy roads, and it&rsquo;s absolutely necessary to have your plow services and shoveling contracts in place before the winter arrives.&nbsp;Despite the chill, winter in Green Bay has a quiet beauty. The city&rsquo;s parks and trails take on a serene, almost magical quality, perfect for snowshoeing or a brisk walk. At dusk, streetlights cast a golden glow across snowy lawns, illuminating the soft haze of falling snowflakes.&nbsp;We like winter. Your rental property may find the season less enchanting.Seasonal Maintenance Suggestions: What to Do Before Winter Arrives&nbsp;Winter in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is more than just a season; it&#39;s a test of resilience for rental property owners. With temperatures often plummeting below freezing and snow accumulating rapidly, ensuring your rental properties are winter-ready is crucial. Proactive seasonal and preventative maintenance can safeguard your investment and maintain tenant satisfaction.If it&rsquo;s the middle of December and your tenant is telling you the furnace is acting funny, there&rsquo;s going to be a lot of scrambling. Let&rsquo;s avoid that by checking the furnace and all the important systems before winter arrives. Here is your seasonal maintenance checklist for those late summer and autumn days.1. Heating SystemsA reliable heating system is not just a comfort for your Green Bay tenants. It&rsquo;s also a legal requirement, and one that city officials will take quite seriously.&nbsp;Heat is a habitability issue. Landlords are required to provide a safe and operable heat source for tenants, and any failure in heating must be repaired promptly. These are the action steps you&rsquo;ll take before winter really sets in to ensure the heat works properly all season long.Action Steps:&nbsp;Annual Inspection. Schedule a professional HVAC inspection before the heating season to ensure your system is running efficiently and safely. By having a contract in place already with a qualified HVAC company, you will likely be prioritized. We have a great team of vendors and service professionals who provide high quality work at competitive rates, so don&rsquo;t hesitate to ask us for a referral.&nbsp;Filter Replacement. Encourage tenants to replace or clean furnace filters regularly to maintain air quality and system performance. This will help them to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and better air quality. It will help you avoid expensive repair issues with the heating system at your property.&nbsp;Thermostat Check. Make sure thermostats function correctly and aren&rsquo;t obstructed by furniture or window coverings. This may be a good time to consider upgrading to a smart thermostat or one that requires less maintenance.2. Insulation and WeatherproofingThe concept of weatherproofing is different here. There&rsquo;s more to it than there is in other, warmer parts of the country. Make it a priority when you&rsquo;re preparing your investment property for winter. Proper insulation and sealing prevent heat loss, reduce energy bills, and protect pipes from freezing.Action Steps:Attic Insulation.&nbsp;Verify that attic insulation meets recommended levels to retain heat effectively. This can be one of the most disastrous areas for cold air to come in and warm air to escape. Keep the attic as well-insulated as you can.Seal Gaps. Inspect and seal any gaps around windows, doors, and electrical outlets. Use caulk, expanding foam, or high-quality weatherstripping.&nbsp;Pipe Insulation. Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages to reduce the risk of freezing. Foam is a budget-friendly and easy-to-install option, while fiberglass offers better temperature resistance and durability. Rubber insulation is flexible and moisture-resistant, suitable for outdoor pipes.3. Roof and Gutter MaintenanceThe roof is going to feel the effects of winter far before any other part of your rental property in Green Bay. Give it the special and thorough attention that it deserves. Heavy snow and ice can lead to ice dams, which may cause leaks and interior damage.Action Steps:Gutter Cleaning. Ensure gutters are free of leaves and debris to allow proper drainage. A messy gutter will invite water intrusion into the home or building. Pests, too.Roof Inspection.&nbsp;Check for damaged shingles, cracks, or other wear that could allow leaks. A well-maintained roof is the most important part of your plan heading into winter.&nbsp;Ice Dam Prevention. Install heat cables or other protective measures in vulnerable areas to minimize ice buildup.4. Exterior MaintenanceThe exterior of your property is going to feel winter&rsquo;s harsh elements. There&rsquo;s no way to move the landscaping indoors. Prepare for the cold and the snow by preparing before anything freezes.&nbsp;Action Steps:Trim Trees and Shrubs. Remove dead or overhanging branches that could damage the property during storms. When the winds pick up, those branches and sticks could fly, c
831ausing additional problems.&nbsp;Foundation Inspection.&nbsp;Look for cracks or signs of settling that could allow water or cold air to enter.Outdoor Faucets. Disconnect hoses and drain outdoor faucets to prevent frozen pipes.These seasonal maintenance issues should already be on your checklist. When you partner with our team, we&rsquo;re making sure that there are no surprises when winter does arrive. Think about winter before it&rsquo;s winter. That&rsquo;s going to give you a better shot at protecting the value and condition of your investment and the comfort of your tenants.&nbsp;Snow and Ice RemovalLet&rsquo;s talk about snow and ice removal. Green Bay requires that snow and ice be removed from sidewalks within a timely manner. As a landlord, it&rsquo;s crucial to keep walkways safe for tenants and visitors.&nbsp;Whether you&rsquo;re renting out a single-family home with a driveway and a path to the front door or a multi-family property that has steps and stones, you want to make sure it&rsquo;s safe for tenants to come and go.&nbsp;The lease agreement should stipulate who is responsible for snow removal. In most cases, it&rsquo;s the landlord. If you&rsquo;re&nbsp;renting out a property in an HOA, your association may take care of it.&nbsp;Proper planning and communication can help landlords protect their tenants, avoid liability, and keep properties in good condition.The first step is clearly defining responsibilities in your lease agreements. Many landlords choose to retain professional snow removal services for common areas and exterior walkways, while tenants may be responsible for clearing small, personal areas such as patios or private steps. Whatever arrangement you choose, it should be clearly documented in writing to prevent misunderstandings. Reinforce this with tenants as winter arrives, too. Maybe the tenants volunteered to take care of snow removal and landscaping when they moved in, but things have changed and they don&rsquo;t think they&rsquo;ll be able to shovel the two feet that have recently fallen. Offer to send a professional and roll those costs into any rental increase when it&rsquo;s time to renew the lease.&nbsp;We always recommend that you have a professional team at the ready. Our experience in Green Bay property management has shown us over and over again that professional snow removal services can be invaluable during heavy snowfall or when ice buildup is a concern. Landlords should schedule contracts in advance and verify that providers are reliable and equipped for winter storms. For smaller properties, having shovels, snow blowers, and ice melt on-site ensures quick response to changing weather conditions.Think about your own liability. Tenants should also be educated on safe snow and ice practices. Encourage them to wear proper footwear, clear areas carefully, and apply ice melt where appropriate. Consider providing guidance on safe storage of snow, avoiding damage to landscaping, and recognizing hazardous conditions.Finally, regular inspections during the winter months can help landlords ensure that snow and ice are managed promptly. Keeping pathways clear not only prevents accidents but also protects the property&rsquo;s exterior surfaces from long-term damage caused by ice and water.&nbsp;Frozen Pipe PreventionFrozen pipes are one of the most common and costly winter problems in Green Bay. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, which can cause pipes to burst and result in significant water damage. We have mentioned some of the preventative measures and seasonal maintenance attentions that can help prevent the concern that your pipes will freeze. This matter is especially close to our hearts because we know that such plumbing issues can lead to expensive repairs and water damage. They&rsquo;re difficult to recover from, and we recommend avoiding them when you can.&nbsp;Here&rsquo;s how.&nbsp;The first step is proper insulation. Exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages are especially vulnerable. Wrap these pipes with foam insulation sleeves or heat tape to maintain warmth during extreme cold. Ensuring that walls, attics, and crawl spaces are properly insulated also helps maintain overall property temperature and reduces the risk of freezing.Next, maintaining consistent heat is critical. Landlords should advise tenants to keep the thermostat at a minimum safe temperature, typically around 55&deg;F, even when the property is unoccupied. Sudden drops in temperature inside the property significantly increase the risk of pipe freeze.Tenant education is another key factor. Encourage tenants to open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warmer air to circulate around pipes, particularly during cold snaps. Instruct them to let faucets drip slightly; moving water is less likely to freeze. Additionally, remind tenants to disconnect outdoor hoses and drain exterior faucets to prevent freezing in exposed outdoor lines.For properties with vulnerable plumbing, consider winterizing vacant homes. Shut off water to nonessential areas and drain the system if the property will be unoccupied for an extended period. Regular inspections during the cold months can help identify weak spots in the plumbing system before issues escalate.By combining proper insulation, consistent heat, tenant guidance, and periodic inspections, landlords in Green Bay can greatly reduce the likelihood of frozen pipes. Proactive measures not only prevent costly repairs but also ensure tenant safety and comfort throughout the harsh Wisconsin winter.Carbon Monoxide SafetyWith heating systems running constantly, the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure increases.Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled in high concentrations. For landlords, ensuring CO safety is both a legal obligation and a crucial step in protecting tenants.The first line of defense is proper installation and maintenance of heating systems. Furnaces, boilers, and other gas or oil-burning appliances should be inspected annually by a licensed professional. Regular maintenance helps prevent leaks and ensures efficie
831nt, safe operation throughout the cold months.Carbon monoxide detectors are essential. Landlords should install CO detectors near sleeping areas in every unit, following local building codes for placement. These detectors must be tested monthly and batteries replaced as needed. Tenants should also be instructed to report any malfunctioning devices immediately.Educating tenants about CO risks is equally important. They should recognize the early symptoms of exposure, which include headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Tenants should also be informed about the proper response if an alarm sounds: evacuate the property immediately and contact emergency services.Additional safety measures include keeping vents and chimneys clear of snow and debris and ensuring that portable fuel-burning devices, like space heaters or generators, are used only in well-ventilated areas.By combining regular appliance maintenance, properly placed detectors, and tenant education, landlords can significantly reduce the risk of carbon monoxide incidents. These precautions help ensure tenants remain safe and healthy, providing peace of mind for them and for you. Local Tips and RequirementsSnow Emergencies.&nbsp;Stay aware of any snow emergencies in Green Bay, which may require additional snow removal efforts or temporary parking restrictions.Tenant Resources. Guide tenants to local programs for energy assistance or emergency supp
831ort during harsh winter conditions.Being a Responsive and Supportive Landlord During Green Bay WintersBeyond maintenance and preparation, one of the most important ways landlords can protect their tenants and create strong relationships is by being responsive and supportive during the cold months. A landlord who is attentive, communicative, and proactive can make a significant difference in tenant comfort, safety, and satisfaction.Responsiveness begins with clear communication. Tenants should know how to reach you quickly if an issue arises. Whether it&rsquo;s a heating concern, a blocked walkway, or a potentially hazardous situation, providing multiple ways to contact you, phone, email, or text, and responding promptly can prevent small problems from becoming emergencies. Even if a repair or solution cannot happen immediately, a quick acknowledgment of the tenant&rsquo;s concern reassures them that they are heard and supported.During extreme cold snaps, it&rsquo;s helpful for landlords to check in with tenants proactively. A simple message or phone call asking whether they are managing the low temperatures or have any concerns demonstrates care and attentiveness. This level of communication not only helps ensure tenant safety but also strengthens trust, reducing stress for tenants who may be worried about living through dangerous winter conditions.Supportive landlords also provide guidance and resources during particularly harsh weather. Sharing tips for staying warm, notifying tenants of local emergency resources, or reminding them of safety measures during icy conditions shows that you are invested in their well-being. Small gestures, like providing extra information about local warming centers or city alerts during storms, can make a big difference in tenant confidence and peace of mind.Ultimately, being responsive and supportive goes beyond addressing problems as they arise. During the coldest months in Green Bay, tenants will remember landlords who reach out, check in, and provide reassurance.&nbsp;Let&rsquo;s do our best to enjoy the winter while keeping your Green Bay rental property in excellent condition. Don&rsquo;t do it alone. Partner with us and enjoy the convenience and the peace of mind. Please contact Blue Frog Property Management.", "image": "/images/blog/Protecting Your Green Bay Rental Property from Winter Woes min_1.png", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/beyond-basic-maintenance-protecting-your-rental-property-from-winter-woes"}, 832 833 {"title": "Navigating Sheboygan's Rental Landscape: Essential Legal Tips for Landlords", "text": "Thinking about investing in Sheboygan real estate?&nbsp;Maybe you already own a rental property there. Maybe you&rsquo;re a local landlord and maybe you&rsquo;re considering an investment even though you live outside of the area. There are a number of good opportunities here, and the rental market is attractive to both owners and tenants. The cost of living is lower, compared to other parts of the country and even other parts of the state. The economy is growing.&nbsp;Plenty of good reasons to rent out a home in Sheboygan.&nbsp;But there are also legal requirements, rental regulations, and general things-to-know in order to be an effective landlord.&nbsp;That&rsquo;s why you work with us. As local Sheboygan property management experts, we know the market. We know the properties. We can tell you about your competition and we can help you find a property that&rsquo;s sure to be profitable.Let&rsquo;s take a look at what it takes to navigate the rental landscape. We&rsquo;ll provide some essential legal tips and also some long-term advice.Quick Summary: Know the Sheboygan rental market and its opportunities and challenges.Put together a strong lease agreement that protects your property.Get to know rental laws around security deposits, condition reports, evictions, and rent collection.Work with Sheboygan property managers to ensure compliance and risk management.&nbsp; The Sheboygan Rental Landscape: Opportunities for Landlords and InvestorsSheboygan, located along eight miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, is the economic center of Sheboygan County. The city has a population of roughly 50,
833000 and anchors a county of about 118,000 residents. Population growth has been modest but steady over the past few years, creating a stable foundation for housing demand.Here are some of the details that you need to know before you jump into the rental market here.High Demand and Low Vacancy Demand for rentals currently outpaces supply, which means more properties are needed. Our data from a recent city housing study shows us that vacancy rates sit well below the healthy 4&ndash;7% range, with some estimates placing them under 1%. This tight market is being driven by household growth, steady employment, and wage increases. Average advertised rents in Sheboygan fall between $1,100 and low $1,200, depending on property type. A one-bedroom apartment is likely to rent for around $1,150. Larger properties rent for more. Everything depends on property condition, amenities, and neighborhood. While these rents are affordable compared to larger Wisconsin metros, they are high enough to support strong returns for landlords, particularly when units are well maintained and competitively marketed. Economic Anchors and Renter Base Sheboygan benefits from a diverse, durable employment base. Major employers include Kohler Co., Sargento, Johnsonville, Bemis, ACUITY, and large healthcare systems. These businesses create year-round demand for rental housing across income levels. Lakeland University contributes a steady flow of student and faculty renters, while the city&rsquo;s robust tourism industry, which is bolstered by lakefront attractions and events, creates opportunities for short-term and seasonal rentals if those things are part of your investment plan. Housing Stock and Investment Potential Something to know if you&rsquo;re an investor who is looking to buy in this market: the city&rsquo;s housing stock is notably older, with more than a third of units built before 1939. That doesn&rsquo;t have to mean more maintenance. Instead, this presents value-add opportunities through renovations, energy-efficiency upgrades, and modern amenities. Sheboygan has also invested in multiple Tax Increment Districts (TIDs) to encourage new housing development, signaling municipal support for increased supply. While new construction is happening, it has yet to fully meet the market&rsquo;s demand. Rent Levels and Affordability One of Sheboygan&rsquo;s strengths is its relative affordability. Rents are well below national averages, making the city attractive to workforce tenants tied to manufacturing, insurance, and healthcare jobs. This affordability helps maintain low turnover and high occupancy rates, which can lead to stable cash flow for investors. Landlord Considerations Wisconsin&rsquo;s landlord-tenant laws are generally straightforward, with no state-imposed cap on security deposits (except for manufactured home lots). Landlords must follow specific rules for check-in reports, allowable deductions, and re-renting if a tenant leaves early. New or out-of-state landlords should familiarize themselves with these requirements to ensure compliance and avoid disputes. We are going to explore these in more detail later in this blog, but it&rsquo;s a consideration for anyone who is planning to rent out a property here and unfamiliar with state and local laws.Sheboygan&rsquo;s rental market is shaped by strong fundamentals: a diverse employer base, steady population trends, thriving tourism, and extremely low vacancy rates. Investors who can bring well-located, updated, and clean housing to market are likely to see strong occupancy and&nbsp;healthy returns. Neighborhood selection is important. Lakefront and downtown areas appeal to lifestyle renters and short-term visitors, properties near major employers suit the workforce market, and rentals near Lakeland University capture student demand. With smart management, realistic budgeting for older properties, and compliance with state regulations, Sheboygan offers the potential for resilient cash flow and long-term property value growth.Lease Agreements in Sheboygan: Compliance and EnforcementStrangely, rental agreements in Wisconsin are not required to be in writing. We recommend that you put your agreement in writing anyway. Otherwise, there is no structure nor accountability to your relationship with your tenant.&nbsp;Having a lease agreement that is both legally compliant and legally enforceable is essential to protecting your investment and avoiding costly disputes. A well-crafted lease clearly outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the landlord and tenant, including rent terms, security deposits, maintenance obligations, and rules for property use.&nbsp;Compliance with Wisconsin&rsquo;s landlord-tenant laws ensures your lease aligns with state regulations, including required disclosures, eviction procedures, and tenant protections. Without a legally sound lease, landlords risk challenges in court, delayed evictions, or even financial penalties. Additionally, a strong lease sets clear expectations for tenants, reducing misunderstandings and establishing a professional landlord-tenant relationship.&nbsp;Investing the time and resources to create a thorough, enforceable lease not only safeguards your property but also contributes to smoother operations. There&rsquo;s more consistent rental income, and a better shot at long-term success.Don&rsquo;t just grab any lease template off the internet. Make sure you are working with a document that protects you and your rental property. Here&rsquo;s what it has to include.&nbsp;Names of Parties. Full names of the landlord and all tenants. Anyone living in the property who is 18 years of age or older must be included in the lease.&nbsp;Property Description. The rental unit&rsquo;
833s address and any included spaces, such as a garage or storage.&nbsp;Lease Term.&nbsp;Start and end dates for the lease, or terms for a month-to-month rental.Rent Amount and Payment Terms.&nbsp;Monthly rent, due date, accepted payment methods, and late fees. Be clear about grace periods and about what&rsquo;s included and not included in the rent.Security Deposit Details. Amount collected, where it is held, and conditions for return.&nbsp;Maintenance and Repairs. Who is responsible for routine upkeep, repairs, and reporting damage.Utilities and Services. Which utilities are included or tenant-paid.Rules for Property Use. Occupancy limits, pet policies, smoking rules, and noise expectations.Entry Rights.&nbsp;Landlord&rsquo;s right to enter, notice requirements, and emergencies.Eviction and Termination Procedures. Grounds for eviction, notice periods, and legal remedies.Disclosure Requirements. Any legally required notices, such as lead paint or mold disclosure.Signatures and Date. Both landlord and tenant must sign and date the lease.This is not an exhaustive list of what should be included in your lease agreements. However, without these specifics included, you could face ambiguity and uncertainty when you try to hold your residents accountable.&nbsp;Looking at the Laws: What You Need to Know about Liability and Legalities for Sheboygan RentalsNavigating rental laws can feel challenging even for experienced landlords. No one wants to be accused of violating fair housing laws or renting out a home that&rsquo;s unfit for occupancy.&nbsp;Understanding the rules around landlord/tenant relationships is essential to protecting your investment and maintaining positive tenant relationships. In Sheboygan, Wisconsin, state and local regulations cover everything from security deposits and lease agreements to tenant rights and eviction procedures.&nbsp;For property owners, staying informed helps avoid costly and disruptive legal issues. It also ensures a smoother, more profitable rental experience.&nbsp;Don&rsquo;t be that landlord who doesn&rsquo;t know any better.&nbsp;Get to know the laws and follow them.&nbsp;Here are the rental requirements and regulations that you&rsquo;ll most want to pay attention to.Security Deposits&nbsp;Unless you&rsquo;re renting out a mobile home lot, there is no state-imposed limit to what you can collect as a security deposit. The deposit must be refundable, and once it&rsquo;s received from the tenant, the landlord must provide a receipt that reflects the amount collected and the purpose of the money. The law also requires a check-in sheet that reflects the condition of the property, and we&rsquo;ll talk more about that in a moment. At the end of the lease term, landlords have 21 days after the end of the lease or the tenant&rsquo;s move-out date to return the deposit. Deductions can be made for unpaid rent and utility bills and for any tenant damage, but not general wear and tear.&nbsp;Check-In DocumentationAccording to Wisconsin law, before the landlord can accept the security deposit from a tenant, they must notify the tenant in writing that they have 7 days after moving in to either inspect the property and notify the landlord of any existing damage or request from the landlord a list of defects or damages that were charged against the previous tenant&rsquo;s security deposit. We take photos to document property condition so that your property is protected during the tenancy and so that damage is easily identified after a tenancy.&nbsp;Rental Increases&nbsp;The good news is, there&rsquo;s no rent control in Wisconsin. Property owners can raise the rent as much as they&rsquo;d like, in accordance with their own lease agreement. When you&rsquo;re raising the rent during a lease renewal, you&rsquo;ll have to inform the tenant of the new rental amount before they agree to renew the lease. If you&rsquo;re operating on a month-to-month tenancy, a 28-day notice period is required before the rent goes up.Eviction Laws in WisconsinTo evict a tenant, you must first send a termination notice to your resident. Since most evictions are due to nonpayment of rent, your notice would likely be a 5-Day Notice to Pay or Quit. If the tenant neither pays the overdue rent nor moves out of the property, you&rsquo;ll need to file for a legal eviction in the courts. The initial hearing will be within 25 days of the Summons and Complaint being filed. Make sure you&rsquo;re clear on all the timelines and paperwork when you move forward with an eviction. We always re
833commend getting help from a property manager or an attorney.Thinking about a short-term rental in Sheboygan? Make sure you understand the legalities. Short-term rentals, also known as tourist rooming houses, require a license and must comply with state lodging code requirements. This includes a pre-inspection and annual health inspections to ensure compliance with regulations. How to Navigate the Rental Market without Breaking Any LawsWe&rsquo;ve talked about the rental landscape, so you know that owning rental property in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, can be a fantastic way to generate steady income.&nbsp;And you also know that navigating the local rental market while remaining fully compliant with state and local laws is crucial to protecting your investment, maintaining positive tenant relationships, and avoiding costly legal disputes.Here&rsquo;s what to remember.Understand Wisconsin Landlord-Tenant Laws The foundation of lawful property management is a strong understanding of Wisconsin&rsquo;s landlord-tenant laws. These statutes cover everything from lease agreements and security deposits to tenant rights and eviction procedures. Failing to comply with any of these requirements can result in legal penalties and strained tenant relationships. Landlords also need to be aware of disclosure obligations. Wisconsin law requires landlords to inform tenants about lead paint hazards in older properties, provide notice of pest infestations if known, and disclose any material conditions that may affect habitability. These disclosures should be incorporated into your lease agreement to ensure both clarity and compliance. Use a Legally Compliant Lease Agreement A well-drafted lease is the single most important legal tool a landlord can use. Your lease should clearly outline rent amounts, payment schedules, security deposits, maintenance responsibilities, rules for pets and smoking, and procedures for resolving disputes. It must also align with Wisconsin law on notice requirements, eviction procedures, and tenant protections. A strong lease reduces misunderstandings, sets clear expectations, and provides enforceable terms if legal action becomes necessary. Stay Current on Local Regulations While Wisconsin provides the overarching legal framework, municipalities like Sheboygan may have additional ordinances affecting rental properties. These can include property maintenance codes, occupancy limits, and fire safety requirements. Regularly checking with the city or consulting with a local property manager ensures that your rentals meet all local standards and helps avoid fines or legal complications. Screen Tenants Thoroughly Responsible tenant screening protects both your property and your compliance record. Use background checks, credit reports, and rental history evaluations to select tenants who are likely to pay rent on time and care for your property. Keep all screening criteria consistent to avoid discrimination claims under the Fair Housing Act. Documenting your process demonstrates that tenant selection decisions are fair, legal, and non-discriminatory. Maintain the Property Properly Wisconsin law requires landlords to provide safe and habitable housing. This includes functioning plumbing, heating, electricity, and adherence to building codes. Regular maintenance not only keeps tenants satisfied but also reduces the risk of disputes and liability claims. Documenting maintenance and repairs can be invaluable if disagreements arise over property conditions. Handle Evictions Carefully Even the most diligent landlords may occasionally face non-paying or problematic tenants. Wisconsin law outlines a formal eviction process that must be strictly followed. Attempting to remove a tenant without proper notice or through self-help methods like changing locks or shutting off utilities is illegal and can result in serious penalties. Understanding notice periods, filing procedures, and court requirements is essential before pursuing eviction. Partner with ProfessionalsFor landlords new to Sheboygan or those managing multiple properties, working with property managers, attorneys, or local real estate professionals can make compliance easier. These experts can provide guidance on lease preparation, legal requirements, tenant relations, and day-to-day operations, helping you avoid missteps that could jeopardize your investment.We&rsquo;d love to be your resource and your property management partner.Successfully navigating the Sheboygan rental market requires a combination of legal knowledge, careful planning, and proactive property management. By understanding Wisconsin&rsquo;s landlord-tenant laws, using a legally compliant lease, maintaining your property, screening tenants thoughtfully, and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can protect your investment while providing quality housing. Landlords who operate within the law not only reduce the risk of disputes and fines but also create a more stable, profitable, and professional rental business.&nbsp;Let&rsquo;s talk about your Sheboygan rental property and its potential. Contact us at Blue Frog Property Management.&nbsp;", "image": "/images/blog/Navigating Sheboygans Rental Landscape Essential Legal Tips for Landlords min.png", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/navigating-rental-landscape-essential-legal-tips-for-landlords"}, 834 835 {"title": "Maximize Your Fox Valley Rental Income: Smart Strategies for Savvy Investors", "text": "Are you looking for smart ways to maximize what you&rsquo;re earning with your Fox Valley rental property?&nbsp;It&rsquo;s more than just raising the rent.To effectively increase your rental income, it&rsquo;s important to focus on tenant quality, preventative maintenance, and resident experience. By providing additional value, you earn additional money.&nbsp;Fox Valley offers a unique blend of a strong local economy, diverse tenant pool, and desirable neighborhoods, making it an attractive area for experienced investors who are growing a portfolio and first-time landlords who want to achieve success and profitability as soon as possible in their investment careers.&nbsp;Let&rsquo;s maximize your rental income with a clear strategy that balances market knowledge, operational efficiency, and proactive property management.&nbsp; Our Overview: Pricing your property correctly from the start avoids expensive adju
835stments later.Tenant quality is more important to profitability than many owners realize.&nbsp;Preventative maintenance is always less expensive than emergency repairs.Providing extra value to tenants drives up retention and your rental income.Working with a Fox Valley property management can keep costs down and profits up. Fox Valley Rental Values: Start Strong with Profitable PricingThink you&rsquo;re going to maximize income by setting the highest possible rent?It doesn&rsquo;t work that way, unfortunately. You&rsquo;ll have to be a bit more strategic.&nbsp;Setting the right rental price is the foundation of long-term profitability for investment properties.&nbsp;Accurate and competitive pricing ensures your property attracts quality tenants quickly, minimizes vacancy periods, and positions you for steady, market-driven rent growth over time.Accurate Pricing MattersWhen a rental is priced too high, it tends to remain vacant on the market longer than an owner would like. Extended vacancies can quickly eat into annual revenue and may force you to make costly concessions just to fill the space.&nbsp;That doesn&rsquo;t mean you should lowball your own rental. This may get you a tenant faster, but you&rsquo;ll leave money on the table month after month, and that&rsquo;s no way to maximize your rental income. Even a $100 difference in monthly rent adds up to $1,200 in lost income each year per property.An accurate rental rate reflects the current market while taking into account your property&rsquo;s unique features, location, and amenities. This balance attracts qualified tenants who are willing and able to pay fair market value, which reduces the likelihood of rent disputes or early move-outs.Competitive Pricing: Standing Out in the MarketThe Fox Valley rental market is competitive, and renters today have more access to information than ever before. Prospective tenants are comparing multiple listings side-by-side before deciding which to see, and a competitively priced property immediately stands out. That&rsquo;s the property that attracts more interest, generates more applications, and gives you the advantage of selecting the best tenant from a larger pool.By pricing your property with the help of a property manager, you&rsquo;ll get a recommendation that considers competing properties in the area, seasonal demand shifts, and the unique benefits your property offers. A professional rental market analysis (RMA) can help pinpoint that ideal rate.The Long-Term Value of Starting at the Right PriceOne of the often-overlooked benefits of setting the correct rental rate at the beginning of a tenancy is how it impacts future renewals. Tenants tend to accept modest, market-driven rent increases during renewal periods, especially if they feel they started at a fair rate and have had a good rental experience.If you begin too high, you may struggle to justify increases later without risking turnover. If you start too low, your increases might feel steep to the tenant, even if they are simply catching up to market rates.&nbsp;Both scenarios create turnover risk. Starting with a well-researched, fair price gives you a stable baseline that allows for gradual increases aligned with market trends, preserving tenant satisfaction while boosting long-term income.Establishing the right rate from day one allows you to set the foundation for maximized rental income for the life of your tenancy.&nbsp;Avoid the Expense of Unqualified Tenants: Screen Better&nbsp;Boosting profitability isn&rsquo;t just about the property itself, but also who you rent it to. Well-qualified tenants contribute to stable, profitable rental income. They pay on time, respect your property, and follow the lease terms, all of which allow for steady income and fewer costs.Finding the right tenant starts with a thorough and consistent screening process. You&rsquo;ll want to do more than collect an application and run a credit check. Strong tenant screening includes checking credit history, verifying employment and income, reviewing rental history, and conducting background checks.Screening may take a little more time upfront, but it&rsquo;s one of the smartest investments you can make in the future of your rental property. A tenant who meets your qual
835ifications is more likely to pay rent reliably, care for your property, and stay for the full term of the lease. Usually even longer.Reduce the Risk of EvictionEarn More Money Evictions are expensive, time-consuming, and stressful for both landlords and tenants. Between lost rent, legal fees, and turnover costs, a single eviction can set your rental income back months. By renting to well-qualified tenants, you greatly reduce the likelihood of having to go through this process. Strong screening helps identify applicants with a history of paying rent on time and meeting lease obligations, which translates to fewer eviction risks. Minimize Late PaymentsSave Time and Money Late rent payments disrupt cash flow and can cause ongoing stress. A tenant with steady employment, a healthy income-to-rent ratio, and a solid credit history is far less likely to fall behind. Consistent on-time payments mean you can meet your own financial obligations with ease, whether that&rsquo;s paying the mortgage, covering maintenance, or setting aside reserves for future upgrades. Protecting Your Property from DamageSpend Less on Turnovers Your rental property is a valuable asset, and careless or destructive tenants can cause costly damage. Well-qualified tenants with positive rental histories are more likely to treat your property with respect, follow maintenance guidelines, and report issues promptly before they become major problems. This helps keep repair costs down and ensures your property stays in top condition, maintaining its long-term value.Preventing Lease ViolationsAvoiding Costs and Conflict From unauthorized occupants to prohibited pets, lease violations can create both legal and logistical headaches. Tenants who are properly screened and understand the lease terms are more likely to comply, which means fewer disputes and a smoother rental experience overall. Well-qualified tenants directly impact your bottom line. They help you avoid costly evictions, late rent, property damage, and lease violations, all while keeping your property occupied and your income steady.By investing in a thorough tenant screening process, you&rsquo;re not just choosing who lives in your property, you&rsquo;re choosing stability, profitability, and peace of mind. Make sure your tenant screening systems are rigorous, thorough, and consistent. It matters for your money.Just Say No to Expensive Maintenance Emergencies.&nbsp;One of the biggest controllable costs in Fox Valley rental ownership is maintenance. When handled strategically, maintenance can protect your property&rsquo;s value, keep tenants happy, and prevent unexpected bills that eat into your profits. The objective is minimizing costs without cutting corners, which comes down to prevention, preparation, and partnering with the right vendors.Avoiding Expensive EmergenciesEmergency repairs are a nightmare, logistically and financially. Not only do they disrupt your tenant&rsquo;s comfort, but they&rsquo;re also far more expensive than planned maintenance. A burst pipe at 2 a.m. or a broken furnace in the middle of winter often means paying higher rates for urgent service calls.The best way to reduce emergency repairs is to address small issues before they become big ones.&nbsp;That slow leak under the sink? It could lead to water damage, mold, and a costly cleanup if ignored.&nbsp;A flickering light fixture? It might be a simple wiring issue now, but it could pose a fire hazard later.&nbsp;Staying proactive saves both time and money.The Power of Preventative MaintenancePreventative maintenance has to be your jam, your vibe, your business. Especially if you&rsquo;re trying to maximize your income.&nbsp;By scheduling regular inspections and service for your property&rsquo;s major systems, you extend their lifespan and reduce the risk of sudden failure. The systems that benefit the most from preventative maintenance include plumbing, HVAC, roofing, and appliances.&nbsp;For example, having your HVAC system serviced twice a year can improve efficiency, lower utility costs for tenants, and prevent breakdowns during peak seasons. Cleaning gutters annually helps prevent water damage and foundation problems. Replacing worn weatherstripping keeps heating and cooling systems from overworking. These simple, planned actions cost a fraction of what an emergency repair or full replacement would.You know this already. What&rsquo;s stopping you from putting these preventative practices into place?Maybe it&rsquo;s your vendors.Build a vendor team that you can be proud of. Make sure they&rsquo;re professional, respectful experts that your tenants love to see coming.&nbsp;This is a critical piece of the puzzle when it comes to putting together strategies that save money and increase income. From plumbers and electricians to landscapers and handymen, the professionals you work with can make a huge difference in both cost and quality.Look for vendors who offer fair, transparent pricing and who understand the importance of quick response times in the rental industry. Building long-term relationships often leads to better rates and priority service when you need it most. You should also have backup vendors in case your first choice is unavailable.Working with trusted vendors also means you won&rsquo;t have to scramble to find help during a crisis, which can lead to hasty (and more expensive) decisions.Minimizing maintenance costs doesn&rsquo;t mean neglecting your property. It means the exact opposite.&nbsp;A lot of the property owners we meet think they&rsquo;re doing a good job of maintaining their property. But, there is always room for managing repairs in a way that&rsquo;s smarter and more cost-effective. By focusing on preventative maintenance, catching problems early, and partnering with the right vendors, you can avoid expensive emergencie
835s, maintain tenant satisfaction, and protect your investment&rsquo;s value.In the long run, a well-maintained property is more profitable, easier to manage, and more appealing to the quality tenants who will help you maximize your rental income year after year.Are You Giving your Fox Valley Tenants a Reason to Renew the Lease?You don&rsquo;t have to be a&nbsp;property management expert to understand the importance of avoiding vacancy.&nbsp;Those unoccupied properties aren&rsquo;t making any money. And it shows.So let&rsquo;s prioritize avoiding vacancies. Even more important is avoiding turnovers. Those costs add up at an alarming level. There&rsquo;s the repainting and the cleaning. The landscaping touch-ups and the marketing and the screening for new tenants.&nbsp;It&rsquo;s better and more profitable to keep the tenants you already have in place.&nbsp;How can you retain them?&nbsp;Offering a free carpet cleaning or a new appliance at renewal time is easy enough, but let&rsquo;s be more proactive. Let&rsquo;s create a fantastic tenant experience from the moment those residents move in. That way, retention is all but guaranteed.&nbsp; Allow pets. Pet-friendly rentals are in high demand, which means your property is more likely to rent quickly and stay occupied. Owners can often charge slightly higher monthly rent to offset the additional wear and tear, as well as collect non-refundable pet fees or refundable pet deposits. These additional charges add directly to your bottom line while still offering tenants a valuable option. Pet-friendly policies also expand your tenant pool, attracting more applicants and giving you a better chance of finding well-qualified renters. In many cases, pet owners are willing to stay longer because they know finding another pet-friendly rental can be challenging. Allowing pets can create happier tenants and higher, more consistent income for property owners.Provide convenience. Online rental payments, for example, can create a sense of ease and simplicity that tenants appreciate. How many people even carry a checkbook anymore? Online maintenance requests are equally as popular. Tenants don&rsquo;t have to chase you down in order to tell you about a leak or a screen that has a hole. They can simply send a message and even attach a photo.Offer services that add value and allow you to collect more money every month.&nbsp;Valet trash collection, for example, is popular with residents, and it can provide ancillary income for owners, increasing rental income. A Resident Benefits Package that includes a myriad of service is a great way to increase the income you earn while also meeting the needs of residents, giving them a good reason to renew the lease year after year. Retaining tenants is one of the best ways to earn more money, but a lot of owners miss this important opportunity. Stability. Recurring income. Fewer costs. All of this is good for your profitability and your reputation.&nbsp;Invest in Fox Valley Property Management for Better Rental ResultsAre you still managing your own rental properties?&nbsp;This might be getting in the way of your ability to earn more.&nbsp;Professional property management can improve your earnings. And maybe you think it&rsquo;s suspicious that a property manager would be telling you this. We&rsquo;d encourage you to talk to other owners. Take a poll of the most successful real estate investors&nbsp;you know. They&rsquo;ll tell you that they would never manage their own properties. Successful and profit-driven rental property owners are less interested in collecting rent and more interested in growing their portfolios.&nbsp;Leaving the day-to-day operations to experts means less room for error and more room for growth.&nbsp;Here&rsquo;s how professional management is a money-earner.&nbsp;Accurate, Competitive Pricing. Managers use market data to set the optimal rental rate, attracting quality tenants quickly while maximizing monthly income.High-Quality Tenant Placement. Professional screening reduces risks of late payments, property damage, and costly evictions.Reduced Vacancy Time.&nbsp;Strategic marketing and quick response to inquiries keep properties occupied and income flowing.Efficient Rent Collection. Streamlined systems ensure on-time payments and consistent cash flow.Cost-Effective Maintenance. Established vendor relationships secure better pricing and faster service, reducing expenses and preserving property value.Legal and Compliance Expertise. Prevents costly mistakes with leases, notices, and landlord-tenant laws.Tenant Retention Strategies.&nbsp;Good communication, timely repairs, and fair treatment encourage longer tenancies, reducing turnover costs.Partnering with a professional property management company allows for c
835onvenience and expertise. It&rsquo;s also boosting profitability and protecting your investment.&nbsp;We have shared some effective strategies for increasing your rental income. Whether you&rsquo;re a Fox Valley landlord with a single property for rent or an investor with a growing portfolio, these are the best guidelines to get you started.&nbsp;Your profitability is also extremely personal.&nbsp;Let&rsquo;s talk about your unique properties and how they&rsquo;re positioned in the local rental market. We can probably provide some customized suggestions for increasing your rental income and look at some way to measure the results of our ideas. Contact us at Blue Frog Property Management.&nbsp;", "image": "/images/blog/Maximize Your Fox Valley Rental Income Smart Strategies for Savvy Investors min.png", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/maximize-your-rental-income-smart-strategies-for-savvy-investors"}, 836 837 {"title": "Investing in Fox Valley Real Estate: Key Considerations for New Property Owners", "text": "Investing in Fox Valley real estate is a smart move, and even if you&rsquo;re new to investing and the rental property market, you&rsquo;re already setting yourself up for success and profitability. Real estate generally makes money, especially when you&rsquo;re able to keep your asset occupied with quality tenants and in good condition.&nbsp;We love investing in rental real estate because your tenants can be counted on to contribute to expenses such as maintenance and management while you build equity and enjoy growing appreciation. You&rsquo;re making money as soon as you acquire the asset. &nbsp;&nbsp;Things can seem chaotic and difficult to navigate when you&rsquo;re new to investing, so we wanted to put together some key considerations that new property owners should know about.&nbsp;So, while any investor at any level of their real estate career can certainly benefit from what we have to say today, we&rsquo;re starting with some strategic advice for those who are new to investing and want to enjoy a rewarding and profitable experience.&nbsp;Many first-time investors come to real estate looking for passive income. You will enjoy passive and consistent income, as long as you take the necessary steps to set yourself up for success.&nbsp;For starters, we recommend that you begin working with a local Fox Valley property manager as soon as possible. Don&rsquo;t wait until you&rsquo;re ready to lease the home. You want to leverage market knowledge and technology to choose a profitable investment that will hear high rents and attract great residents. When you&rsquo;re already in possession of the property, you want to make sure you&rsquo;ve made the necessary updates and upgrades in order to maximize what it earns and to attract the best possible residents. Property managers can be very helpful with these details.&nbsp;Let&rsquo;s take a look at what you should know as a new rental property owner, and how you can ensure you&rsquo;re most likely to succeed as a real estate investor.&nbsp; How to Approach Rental Property Ownership in Fox ValleyEach rental property owner comes to the Fox Valley market with their own unique set of investment goals and plans for the future. Maybe you own a property that you&rsquo;re not living in because you inherited it from a family member. Maybe it&rsquo;s a home you once lived in yourself, and you&rsquo;re not prepared or willing to sell it just yet, so you plan to rent it out. Maybe you bought the property, identifying a great deal and deciding to jump into the world of landlords and tenants.&nbsp;There are many kinds of investors, too. Some people invest to make an immediate profit. They fix up distressed homes and renovate them, then sell. Some investors buy vacation properties and use the homes for themselves part of the year and rent it out when they&rsquo;re not occupying the properties themselves.&nbsp;At Blue Frog Property Management, we are willing and happy to work with all kinds of investors and rental property owners.&nbsp;For the purposes of our conversation today, we are focusing on those investors who want to rent out properties for the long term. This buy and hold strategy, we&rsquo;ve found, is often the best way to enjoy stable and recurring earnings and to remain profitable for the long term.&nbsp;Welcome to the Fox Valley Rental MarketHow Well Do You Know the Market?Before making any investment or getting started with a rental property, it&#39;s very important to understand the market you&#39;re entering. Maybe you are local to Fox Valley and already have some idea of where the best neighborhoods are and what types of properties are available. If you&rsquo;re investing from afar, make sure you do some investigation into where you want to invest and what you want to buy.&nbsp;Study local real estate trends. Check out local property values and where they&rsquo;ve landed over the last few years. You&rsquo;ll need to get an idea of the rental rates, too; are they going up or are they stagnant? How much demand is there for rental properties? Get to know the location and decide which areas and property types are best suited to your investment goals.&nbsp;There are likely to be seasonal variations, and you want to study those, too. Fox Valley rental properties can rent faster and for more money in the spring and summer, generally speaking. There are a number of things that go into pricing and marketing as well as preparing a property for rent. Understanding the market and its demands will help you with those tasks before the leasing of your home begins.&nbsp;This is also a good time to analyze your competition. See what similar properties are renting for, and how often they are occupied. By looking at other rental properties on the market, you can determine how much vacancy you can expect and whether turnover processes will take more time than you expect.&nbsp; How Well Do You Know the Tenants in this Market? Tenant demands and preferences tend to shift over time, and you&rsquo;ll be far more successful as a rental property owner when you can anticipate what prospective residents will be looking for and how you can attract them to your property.&nbsp; Get to know what the most important amenities, features, and design elements seem to be to the most qualified tenants looking for homes in Fox Valley. Are they prioritizing single-family homes with a lot of yard space? Are they looking for value, choosing smaller homes in multi-family buildings, instead?&nbsp; This is another area where a local property management partner can be extremely beneficial. We work with tenants as much as we work with property owners;
837 we know what they&rsquo;re looking for. We know what they expect when they&rsquo;re looking for their next home, and we know where their priorities fall.&nbsp; We also follow their changing needs and desires. Ten years ago, in-unit washer and dryers were not nearly as popular as they are now. Today, it&rsquo;s very difficult to rent out a property for a good price if there isn&rsquo;t a laundry system set up and available. Your property manager can make recommendations and market your property according to current tenant demands.&nbsp; Do You Have Clear Financial Goals and Investment Strategies? To be prepared for the rental market and your ability to succeed in it, you have to have a clear idea of where you stand financially and what you&rsquo;re hoping to accomplish.&nbsp; Maybe cash flow is your most important financial goal. You could be in possession of a home that&rsquo;s already paid off, and all of the rent you earn will be total profit. You&rsquo;ll want to maximize that income as much as you can, and you&rsquo;ll be in a fine position to keep up with maintenance, emergency repairs, and improvements and upgrades.&nbsp; Perhaps you&rsquo;re more interested in the long-term appreciation of your asset.&nbsp; Whatever your money plans and your financial interests, you&rsquo;ll want to be clear about how your rental property is going to move you closer to those goals.&nbsp; How Well Do You Know the Property You&rsquo;re Renting Out? Your asset might be in an HOA, it might have the latest smart home technology upgrades, and it may be a property that has specific landscaping needs. Maybe you&rsquo;re renting out units in an apartment building that has an elevator that will need maintenance, or perhaps there are common areas that need special attention. &nbsp; It&rsquo;s essential that you understand the maintenance needs of your rental property before you allow tenants to move in and live there. Get a schedule of seasonal preventative maintenance in order. Pay attention to landscaping and curb appeal. Know how the age and current condition of your property has an impact on what you&rsquo;re planning for systems and organizations.&nbsp; Choose a profitable rental property when you&rsquo;re investing. Consider location. Earning Income: Considerations for Your Rental Property in Fox ValleyInvesting in Fox Valley real estate, particularly rental homes, can create a steady stream of passive income, which is a goal for many real estate investors. We talked a bit about setting your financial goals. Here are the ways in which you can expect to earn money on your rental property.&nbsp;Consistent and Increasing Rents&nbsp;Keeping your rental value consistent with market demands and raising the rent at renewal time will ensure you have a steady and recurring stream of income every month. Here are your most pressing considerations when it comes to setting and raising the rent.Setting the Rent&hellip;Get to know the market. What are the average rents for properties similar to yours in your neighborhood? How does your property compare to those rental homes?&nbsp;Decide how much vacancy you&rsquo;re willing to risk. You want to price your property as high as you possibly can. But, if you price it too high, you run the risk of a longer vacancy time. You&rsquo;ll wait longer to find tenants who are willing to pay your high price. By reducing your monthly rent by even $25 a month, you might find you&rsquo;ll place a tenant faster, which earns you more in the long term because you won&rsquo;t lose a whole month to vacancy.&nbsp;Always include the rental amount in your marketing and listing. This will help prospective tenants focus on the rental homes that are in their budget. You won&rsquo;t waste your time or theirs.&nbsp; Renewing the Lease and Rent Increases&hellip;Conduct another market analysis at renewal time to get an idea of what the market supports in terms of average rents.&nbsp;Talk to your tenants about their plans. Offer a renewal rate that&rsquo;s likely to motivate them to stay, but still bring in more income for you. Most tenants will expect that their rent will go up at renewal time. Just don&rsquo;t make the amount such a jump that you chase them out of your property. Retaining tenants is better for your bottom line.&nbsp; Increasing Rental and Property ValuesYou&rsquo;ll also make more money on your rental property when you offer more.&nbsp;This is where consistent updates and upgrades can be a benefit. While it will cost you money to make those renovations, the return on investment (ROI) is usually well-worth the cost and the investment of time and money. When you make strategic upgrades and improvements that get the attention of your tenants, you&rsquo;ll earn more money now and in the future. The idea is to increase your rental value in the short
837-term and your overall property value in the long-term.&nbsp;Don&rsquo;t be afraid to think creatively. By offering amenities and added value services, you can earn even more. Consider valet trash services, allow pets, and provide in-unit washers and dryers. These things increase what you earn.&nbsp;Tax BenefitsTax benefits are also going to help you earn some extra income, and a lot of investors and rental property owners forget that this is a big deal when it comes to profitability and rental properties. While you do have to pay taxes on the income you earn, you can take advantage of a number of tax breaks as a rental property owner. And they&rsquo;re fairly significant.&nbsp;Let&rsquo;s make sure you&rsquo;re taking all of the deductions to which you&rsquo;re entitled. Here&rsquo;s a brief list of what you don&rsquo;t want to miss.&nbsp;Mortgage Interest DeductionOne of the most significant tax benefits for real estate investors is the mortgage interest deduction. You can deduct the interest paid on your mortgage from your taxable income, reducing your overall tax liability. This deduction applies to loans used to acquire or improve rental properties. Make sure you have an accurate statement that shows how much interest was paid on your mortgage or any type of loan or money borrowed.&nbsp; DepreciationDepreciation allows you to recover the cost of your investment property over time. The IRS permits you to depreciate residential rental properties over 27.5 years. This means you can deduct a portion of the property&#39;s cost each year, even if the property&#39;s value is appreciating. This is a pretty generous timeframe by IRS standards, so make sure you&rsquo;re leveraging this important deduction. It can make a big difference in what you&rsquo;re paying.&nbsp; Property Tax DeductionWhat about those property taxes you pay to your local government? Property taxes are a necessary expense for real estate investors, but they can also be a valuable deduction. You can deduct the property taxes you pay on your rental properties from your taxable income, further reducing your tax burden. A lot of property taxes have gone up for Fox Valley property owners, thanks to higher property values. Make sure you&rsquo;re working off an accurate tax bill.&nbsp; Operating Expense DeductionsFrom maintenance and repairs to property management fees, many expenses associated with owning rental properties are deductible. Common deductible expenses include utilities that might be paid on your property as well as insurance premiums, advertising costs to find a new tenant, and legal and professional fees. Fox Valley property management fees are also tax deductible.&nbsp;Capital Gains Tax BenefitsWhen you sell a property, you may be subject to capital gains tax on the profit. However, there are strategies to minimize this tax. The most important and well-known way to defer your capital gains tax is by utilizing a 1031 Exchange. By reinvesting the proceeds from the sale into a similar property, you can defer paying capital gains tax. There&rsquo;s also the long-term capital gains tax rate to consider if you&rsquo;re an investor who has been in the game for a while. Holding a property for more than a year qualifies you for long-term capital gains tax rates, which are typically lower than short-term rates.Long-Term Appreciation and EquityFox Valley rental properties often appreciate in value over time, offering substantial returns when you sell. You can also leverage equity. By using the equity in your property, you can invest in additional properties and expand your portfolio.&nbsp;These are just some of the financial benefits we want you to be prepared for as you launch yourself into owning rental property.&nbsp;Fox Valley Property ManagementWhat about what happens once you&rsquo;re ready to lease your home?&nbsp;You&rsquo;ll need to think about marketing the property. Screening tenants. Coming up with a lease agreement. You&rsquo;ll need a team of vendors and repair experts. You&rsquo;ll need a system for accounting and financial reporting.&nbsp;Trying to do it all alone, especially when you&rsquo;re new to the rental market, is not a great idea.&nbsp;Effective and professional property management will help with maintaining rental income and protecting your investment. Smart investors understand the value of professional property management. It provides for careful and compliant tenant screening, preventative maintenance and preferred vendors, and compliance with state, federal, and local laws.&nbsp;Your property management partner will handle the leasing, management, and maintenance of your investments, and the sooner you have this relationship in place, the more successful and profitable you are likely to be.&nbsp;Let&rsquo;s talk about how to make your first rental property a successful one. Contact us at Blue Frog Property Management.&nbsp;", "image": "/images/blog/Investing in Fox Valley Real Estate min.png", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/investing-in-real-estate--key-considerations-for-new-property-owners"}, 838
839 {"title": "Proactive Maintenance: The Key to Long-Term Property Value for Your Green Bay Rental Property", "text": "Property value is at the core of your profitability as a rental property owner in Green Bay. You have to make sure its value is increasing, its condition is stable, and that there are plenty of tenants who continuously want to rent it from you.&nbsp;There are many ways to keep your property value high, and today we&rsquo;re focusing on one strategy in particular: proactive maintenance. When you stay ahead of the emergency repairs, the deferred maintenance, and the potential problems, you ultimately earn more on your investment.&nbsp;Let&rsquo;s unlock the path towards long-term property value for your Green Bay rental by shining the spotlight on proactive maintenance and how to make it work for you. Why Proactive Maintenance is Crucial for Rental PropertiesBefore we dive into the tips we have around making proactive maintenance a priority, let&#39;s discuss why it&rsquo;s so important. You probably have a sense of this already, especially if you&rsquo;ve been renting out properties for a while.&nbsp;Cost SavingsAddressing minor issues before they become major problems can save you significant repair costs. You&rsquo;re always going to spend more money on the maintenance issues that are left to become bigger and more frustrating. Tenant Satisfaction&nbsp; Happy tenants are more likely to renew their lease agreements, reducing your turnover rates and vacancy periods. A quick response to maintenance and repair requests makes tenants very happy.&nbsp;Property Value Regular maintenance helps to protect not only the condition of your property but its value as well. You want to earn as much as possible on your property now and in the future. To do that, you have to take a proactive and preventative approach to maintenance. &nbsp;Legal Compliance Habitability standards are important and legally enforced. Staying on top of maintenance helps you comply with local laws and regulations, avoiding potential fines and legal actions. Don&rsquo;t give your tenants a reason to complain to the city or state. Proactive maintenance is good for you, it&rsquo;s good for your property, and it&rsquo;s good for the residents who live in your property. We know that the expense and the time that&rsquo;s required to respond to minor issues is often difficult, especially for self-managing landlords. However, you don&rsquo;t want to ignore those small items. You don&rsquo;t want to put them on the back burner for too long. Otherwise, you&rsquo;ll end up in the middle of a larger and more expensive dilemma.&nbsp;Elements of a Proactive Maintenance StyleWhen we talk about proactive maintenance strategies, we&rsquo;re talking about the following. Inspecting Your Green Bay Investment Ongoing inspections will ensure you&rsquo;re understanding any of the existing and potential problems happening at your property. Three inspections will be especially important as you&rsquo;re maintaining your investment proactively.&nbsp;&nbsp;Move-In Inspection The move-in inspection serves several purposes. First, it allows you to ensure that the property is move-in ready, and your tenant can safely and happily move in. Second, it allows you to document the condition of your property before your tenant moves in. This is an important part of protecting your investment and holding your tenants accountable for any damage that&rsquo;s done to it.&nbsp; Finally, it allows you to take a look at the systems and functions of your property. You can make sure everything is working the way it should. If there&rsquo;s something that needs to be addressed, you have the opportunity to take care of it right away. Move-Out Inspection&nbsp; During the move-out inspection, you&rsquo;ll do the same things you did during the move-in inspection. You&rsquo;ll take the same photos you did when you were documenting property conditions before the tenants took possession.&nbsp; This inspection is used to decide how you&rsquo;ll handle the security deposit. If there&rsquo;s a lot of tenant damage, you&rsquo;
839ll want to have it repaired, and you can use the security deposit to pay for those repairs.&nbsp; Another good reason to conduct a thorough move-out inspection is that you have the opportunity to keep your property in good condition. You&rsquo;ll want to make sure it&rsquo;s in excellent working order before you begin marketing to new tenants.&nbsp;Maintenance Inspection At least once during the lease term, you&rsquo;ll want to get inside your property and look around. Write this into the lease agreement so your tenants understand to expect the walk-through inspection after they&rsquo;ve already moved in.&nbsp; This is your opportunity to make sure everything is working and in good shape. It gives you an opportunity to ensure there isn&rsquo;t any excessive wear and tear or deterioration at your property. You can also check in with tenants and see if there&rsquo;s anything they&rsquo;ve noticed that might need attention. If you come across even minor repairs and updates that are necessary, get that work done as quickly as possible. It&rsquo;s the best way to protect the condition and value of your property, and it also shows your tenants that you care about their comfort. &nbsp; Conducting regular inspections is the foundation of proactive maintenance.What to Maintain ProactivelyOften, it will seem like parts of your rental property can motor along without any attention at all. You should still take a look at them once in a while. Here are some of the things we recommend around your most expensive and important investment property mechanics:HVAC Systems HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. This is the system that provides heating and cooling to your residential and commercial buildings. Proper maintenance of this system is necessary to ensure optimal performance and longevity. HVAC maintenance is not just about tenant comfort (although that, too, is a good enough reason to maintain it); it&#39;s about protecting your investment. Regular maintenance ensures:Efficiency &ndash; A well-maintained system runs more efficiently, reducing energy costs.Longevity &ndash; Regular upkeep can extend the life of your HVAC system.Safety &ndash; Proper maintenance reduces the risk of system failures that could potentially cause harm.Tenant Satisfaction &ndash; Happy tenants are more likely to stay longer and take better care of your property when they&rsquo;re comfortable in the summers and the winters. Here are some good ways to maintain the HVAC system in your Green Bay rental:1. Schedule Regular InspectionsRegular inspections by a certified HVAC technician are a great way to ensure you&rsquo;re proactively maintaining the system. Aim for at least two inspections per year&mdash;one before the heating season and another before the cooling season. These inspections help identify potential issues before they become major problems.2. Replace Air FiltersDirty air filters can significantly reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system. Make it a habit to replace air filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and the type of filter. Encourage your tenants to monitor filter conditions as well.3. Clean Vents and DuctsOver time, dust and debris can accumulate in vents and ducts, reducing airflow and system efficiency. Schedule professional duct cleaning every 3-5 years and ensure that vents are kept clean and unobstructed.4. Maintain the Outdoor UnitThe outdoor unit of your HVAC system needs to be free of debris and vegetation. Regularly check the unit and clear away leaves, grass, and other debris. Ensure there&rsquo;s at least two feet of clearance around the unit to allow for proper airflow.5. Monitor Thermostat SettingsEnsure that your property&rsquo;s thermostat is functioning correctly. Programmable thermostats can help maintain optimal temperatures and improve energy efficiency. Encourage your tenants to use energy-saving settings when they&#39;re not home.6. Check Refrigerant LevelsLow refrigerant levels can lead to inefficient cooling and potential system damage. Have a professional check and top off refrigerant levels as needed during regular inspections.7. Educate Your TenantsYour tenants play a partnership role in maintaining the HVAC system. Provide them with guidelines on proper usage, such as not blocking vents, regularly replacing air filters, and reporting issues promptly.8. Keep Detailed RecordsMaintain a log of all HVAC maintenance activities, including inspections, repairs, and replacements. This documentation can be invaluable for future reference and when making decisions about system upgrades.Proactive Plumbing MaintenanceProactive plumbing care involves regular inspections and maintenance to catch potential issues early. Here are some key reasons why proactive plumbing care is essential:Cost Savings: Early detection can prevent minor issues from turning into major, costly repairs.Tenant Satisfaction: This benefit comes up again and again, and it&rsquo;s worth repeating. Tenants appreciate a well-maintained property, which can lead to longer tenancy and fewer vacancies.Property Value Preservation: Keeping the plumbing system in good condition helps maintain the overall value of the property. Here are your easy steps to proactive plumbing care:1. Conduct Regular InspectionsRegular inspections are the foundation of proactive plumbing care. Schedule inspections at least twice a year to check for leaks, corrosion, and other potential issues. Always work with a professional plumber who can provide a thorough asse
839ssment.2. Include Your TenantsYour tenants play a significant role in maintaining the plumbing system. Educate them on best practices, such as:Avoiding Drain Clogs Advise tenants not to pour grease down the drain and to youse drain screens to catch hair and other debris. Proper Disposal Encourage the property disposal of waste and avoid flushing non-flushable items. This information can be included in your orientation to the property.&nbsp;Immediate Reporting&nbsp; Make sure your tenants know how to report any plumbing issues immediately, no matter how minor they may seem. 3. Install Water-Saving FixturesInstalling water-saving fixtures can help reduce wear and tear on your plumbing system. Consider upgrading to low-flow toilets, which use less water per flush, reducing the strain on your plumbing. You can also look for water-efficient shower heads and faucets. These fixtures can significantly decrease water usage, reducing the risk of pipe damage due to high pressure.4. Monitor Water PressureHigh water pressure can damage pipes and fixtures over time. Use a water pressure gauge to regularly check the pressure in your property. Ideally, it should be between 40-60 psi. If the pressure is too high, consider installing a pressure regulator.5. Address Leaks ImmediatelyEven small leaks can lead to significant water damage and mold growth if left unattended. During your inspections, check for signs of leaks around faucets, toilets, and under sinks. Promptly repair any leaks you find to prevent further damage.6. Maintain the Water HeaterThe water heater is a critical component of your property&#39;s plumbing system. Schedule annual maintenance to flush the tank. This will remove sediment buildup that can cause the heater to work less efficiently. You&rsquo;ll want to have someone check the anode rod, too. This is what prevents corrosion inside the tank. Replace it if it looks old or damaged. Finally, always look for leaks or signs of dripping around the water heater.&nbsp;7. Winterize Your PropertyGreen Bay can have some pretty intense winter weather, so it&#39;s crucial to winterize the plumbing to prevent frozen pipes. Take steps such as insulating the pipes. This will protect exposed pipes in unheated areas. You also want to drain outdoor faucets. Disconnect hoses and drain water from outdoor faucets. Always keep indoor temperatures above freezing. If your tenants plan to travel, make sure they&rsquo;ve set the thermostat to a temperature that prevents your pipes from freezing.&nbsp; Proactive Electrical MaintenanceCheck for frayed wires, faulty outlets, and ensure all appliances are in good working condition.Regular inspections are the foundation of proactive maintenance. Schedule a professional electrician to inspect the electrical system annually. During these inspections, they should:Check for outdated wiring.Inspect the condition of outlets and switches.Test circuit breakers and panels.Look for signs of wear and tear.Make sure you&rsquo;re upgrading any outdated systems. If your Green Bay rental property is older, it might have outdated electrical systems that are not up to current safety standards. Consider upgrading:Wiring. Replace old knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring with modern copper wiring.Panels. Upgrade electrical panels to handle today&#39;s power demands, especially if tenants use multiple high-power devices.Outlets. Install GFCI outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where water is present to reduce the risk of electric shock.Partnering and Communicating with Tenants for Proactive MaintenanceYour tenants are your eyes and ears when you&#39;re not around. Encourage open communication and make it easy for them to report maintenance issues.Create a system for easy maintenance reports. Obviously, you want to know about any emergencies right away, and a phone call is the best course of action as soon as it is safe to make that call. You also want tenants to feel like it&rsquo;s easy and convenient to report routine maintenance issues. For normal repairs, offer an online or written system. They can send you a message detailing the problem, perhaps, with photos. As Green Bay property managers, we have an entire portal that&rsquo;s specific to maintenance reporting. It gives tenants the platform they need to make timely repair requests, and it allows us to document and track all of the work that&rsquo;s done at your property.&nbsp;It&rsquo;s also important to provide regular updates. Keep your tenants informed about scheduled maintenance and inspections to build trust and transparency. You may need them to be home for vendors to enter the property, for example. Allow them to coordinate directly with vendors if that makes them feel more involved.Finally, provide a quick response when your tenants do make a maintenance request. Address those reported issues promptly to prevent small problems from becoming big ones.Putting Together Your Maintenance BudgetA well-planned maintenance budget&nbsp;ensures you have the funds available when needed, whether we&rsquo;re talking about a simple appliance replacement or a new roof. When it comes to budgeting, we recommend that you put aside funds in a reserve. Allocate a portion of your rental income for routine and unexpected maintenance. You also want to track expenses carefully. Keep detailed records of all maintenance activities and costs. This will help you plan better for future needs.Finally, when it comes to budgeting for maintenance over the long term: invest in quality.&nbsp;Sometimes, spending a bit more on quality materials and services can save you money in the long run by reducing the frequency of repairs.Partner with Outstanding Vendors&nbsp;You&rsquo;
839ll have a hard time maintaining your property proactively if you don&rsquo;t have a great team of vendors, contractors, and service providers ready to help you. While there are some good reasons to DIY a project, at your rental property, you want to be working with licensed and insured professionals. Certain tasks will require professional expertise, especially when you want to prioritize quality and reduce liability.&nbsp;For significant repairs and installations hire licensed contractors who can guarantee their work. Ask for referrals from other property owners who are happy with the professionals they&rsquo;ve used. Establish relationships with these vendors, too. When they are coming to your property to perform regular maintenance tasks like HVAC servicing, plumbing, and electrical work, it&rsquo;s easier to get them to prioritize your needs.&nbsp;Consider professional inspections when it comes to roofing, foundation work, and structural elements. You want to know where you stand. Literally.&nbsp;These are our best tips for proactive and preventative maintenance for your Green Bay investment property. Let&rsquo;s talk about your specific needs and how we can help. Contact us at Blue Frog Property Management.&nbsp;", "image": "/images/blog/Proactive Maintenance min.png", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/proactive-maintenance-the-key-to-long-term-property-value-for-your-rental-property"}, 840 841 {"title": "Pet-Friendly Rentals in Sheboygan: Pros, Cons, and Best Practices", "text": " Are you a cat person or dog person?&nbsp;Maybe you love all animals.&nbsp;Maybe you love all animals except the animals who are living in your rental property.&nbsp;This is understandable. Allowing pets into a property increases the risk of damage. There&rsquo;s also the potential misbehavior for which you could be held responsible. What if a tenant&rsquo;s dog bites the neighbor&rsquo;s child? What if your tenant&rsquo;s indoor/outdoor cat drags wild birds into the building and tortures them in the common areas?Pets can be risky.&nbsp;We still think you should allow them in your Sheboygan rental property, under most circumstances.&nbsp;Today, we&rsquo;re talking about pet-friendly rental properties. Why they&rsquo;re good. Why they&rsquo;re risky, what the pros and cons might be when you&rsquo;re trying to decide whether or not you want to be the landlord who doesn&rsquo;t allow tenants to move into a home with their furry family members.&nbsp;We&rsquo;re also going to look at some best practices around pets, particularly pet screening and pet policies. We hope this will put your mind at ease if you do decide to allow those little critters.&nbsp;Here&rsquo;s what we think about pets and your rental. Pet-Friendly ProsReasons to Allow Pets in your Sheboygan Rental Property Welcoming pets into your rental property can be an excellent way to boost your revenue and appeal to a larger pool of tenants. While we certainly understand the reservations some property owners may have about potential damage or disturbances, the benefits of offering pet-friendly rentals often outweigh the concerns. Here are just a few of the excellent reasons to allow pets in your Sheboygan rental home. Increased Tenant PoolHigher Rental IncomeLess TurnoverResponsible TenantsCompetitive AdvantageLess VacancyAdditional RevenueEnhancing Appeal Increased Tenant PoolOne of the most significant advantages of allowing pets is that you&rsquo;ll have access to a broader tenant pool. According to the American Pet Products Association, 67% of U.S. households own a pet. We think that statistic is actually a little low; it seems like almost everyone we encounter has at least one dog or cat. So, from a strictly numbers perspective, it makes economic sense to allow pets.&nbsp;By accommodating pet owners, you tap into this vast market of prospective tenants, significantly increasing your chances of filling vacancies quickly. Pet-friendly rentals are in high demand, and prospective tenants are often willing to pay more for a home that welcomes their furry friends.Higher Rental IncomePet-fr
841iendly properties can earn higher rents for many property owners, especially if you&rsquo;re in a competitive market like ours, where homes are leased quickly. Tenants with pets understand that finding suitable accommodation can be challenging, and they are often willing to pay a premium for the convenience. This means you can set higher rental rates and potentially increase your overall income.Longer Tenancy DurationTenants who find a pet-friendly rental are more likely to stay longer, reducing turnover rates. Moving with pets can be a stressful and challenging process, so once pet owners find a comfortable home for their animals, they are less likely to move frequently. Long-term tenants mean fewer vacancies, reduced advertising costs, and less time spent screening new tenants.There&rsquo;s also the matter of not wanting to pay another pet fee. Most tenants with animals know that they&rsquo;ll be asked for another pet fee or pet deposit when they move into a new home. They avoid this by renewing their lease agreement and that&rsquo;s good for you.Responsible TenantsIt&rsquo;s easy to worry about the damage that animals can do, but honestly as professional property managers in Sheboygan, we can tell you that we rarely encounter a pet that can do more damage than a person. And it&rsquo;s rare to encounter pet damage that exceeds the pet fee, pet rent, or security deposit that was paid.&nbsp;Pet owners often make responsible and considerate tenants. Caring for a pet requires a high level of responsibility, routine, and commitment. These qualities can translate into how they treat your property. Additionally, pet owners are typically more appreciative and loyal to landlords who understand their needs, which leads to a positive tenant-landlord relationship.Most tenants with pets turn out to be good tenants. Think of it as a positive sign when a tenant has pets, and make sure you ask former landlords during the screening process how the pet behaved in the rental property.&nbsp;Competitive AdvantageIn a crowded rental market, offering pet-friendly accommodations can give you a competitive edge. With many landlords still hesitant to allow pets, your willingness to do so can make your property stand out. This unique selling point can attract high-quality tenants who may otherwise overlook your rental.In your marketing, you&rsquo;ll want to indicate that you&rsquo;re willing to consider pets. That&rsquo;s going to draw more prospective tenants to your listing. You&rsquo;ll have more showings to schedule and a larger pool of applicants who are willing to consider your home.&nbsp;Reduced Vacancy RatesBy opening your rental property to pet owners, you can significantly reduce your vacancy rates. Pet-friendly rentals tend to fill up faster and remain occupied longer. With a steady stream of applicants, you can maintain consistent rental income and minimize the financial impact of empty units.Vacancy is expensive. If you&rsquo;re committed to not having pets in your property, you may have to make peace with the fact that it&rsquo;s going to take you longer to rent out your property to a good tenant.&nbsp;Additional Revenue StreamsAllowing pets opens up opportunities for additional revenue streams. You can charge pet deposits, pet rent, or non-refundable pet fees. These charges can help offset potential damages and increase your income. Make sure to clearly outline these terms in your lease agreement to avoid any misunderstandings. We&rsquo;re going to talk about pet policies and how to create them to protect your property. Extra pet rent or pet fees are a big part of that.&nbsp;Enhancing Your Property&#39;s AppealPet-friendly features such as a secure yard, pet washing stations, or nearby parks can enhance your property&#39;s appeal. These amenities can make your rental more attractive to pet owners and increase its market value. Investing in pet-friendly additions can deliver long-term benefits by attracting and retaining responsible residents who are likely to stay in place.&nbsp;Pet-Friendly ConsRisk Associated with Allowing Pets in your Sheboygan Rental Property While permitting pets might seem like a good way to attract more tenants, and it does come with all of the benefits and advantages that we&rsquo;ve just listed, it&rsquo;s important that you make this decision with all of the necessary information. Allowing pets isn&rsquo;t always perfect. In fact, it can bring about several issues that can impact your property and your peace of mind.&nbsp;Let&rsquo;s talk a look at some of the compelling reasons to reconsider allowing pets in your rental property:Liability ConcernsOne significant issue with allowing pets is the potential for liability. If a tenant&#39;s pet injures someone on your property, you could be held responsible. Even well-behaved animals can act unpredictably in new environments. This risk can lead to potential lawsuits, which could drain your time, resources, and finances. For example, a dog bite incident could result in legal action against you, even if you had nothing to do with the incident directly. You&rsquo;ll be an easy target for a victim of that dog bite, since you&rsquo;re the person who owns the property where the incident occurred.Pet Damage PotentialPets, especially those not well-trained, can cause considerable damage to rental properties. Even if it&rsquo;s unlikely, it&rsquo;s still a risk. From scratched floors and torn carpets to chewed baseboards and stained walls, the cost of repairs can add up quickly. Even pets that are usually well-behaved can have accidents or display destructive behavior when stressed or left alone for long periods. Removing pet odors from a home can take a lot of effort. Replacing landscaping that&rsquo;s been dug up by a dog can also be term-intensive and expensive. There&rsquo;s damage that a cat&#39;s claws can do to hardwood floors. This is part of the risk.Deteriorating PropertyBeyond the immediate damage, pets can contribute to the gradual deterioration of your property. Hair, dander, and odors can become embedded in carpets, furniture, and ventilation systems, requiring deep cleaning or replacement between tenants. These issues can make your property less appealing to future renters who may have allergies or a strong aversion to pet-related smells. Persistent pet odors can be challenging and costly to remove, potentially reducing your property&#39;s market value.Irresponsible OwnerNot all pet owners are as responsible as the fantastic pet owners that some of us have been lucky to work with. You&rsquo;ll find that there are pet owners who may neglect to clean up after their pets, leading to unsanitary conditions and attracting pests. Others may fail to properly train or c
841ontrol their animals, resulting in noise disturbances or aggressive behavior that can upset other tenants and neighbors. A tenant who neglects to scoop their dog&#39;s waste, for example, could create a health hazard and affect the overall living environment. In your multi-family rental properties, you&rsquo;ll find there are always going to be residents complaining about their neighbors not cleaning up after their dogs.&nbsp;Insurance ConcernsAllowing pets can also impact your insurance policies. Some insurance companies charge higher premiums or refuse coverage altogether for properties that allow certain types of pets, particularly dog breeds perceived as more aggressive. Additionally, claims related to pet damage or injuries can lead to increased premiums or policy cancellations. Talk to your insurer before you allow pets. If your insurance policy does not cover dog bites, you may face out-of-pocket expenses for any incidents. Get an understanding of which dogs might be on their dangerous breeds list, and what it will mean if you rent to a tenant who has such a pet.Pet Screening: A Hedge Against RiskYour tenant screening process should be consistent, objective, fair, and well-documented. If you&rsquo;re going to allow tenants to move in with pets, make sure both the human and the animal meet your screening requirements. Before you even start screening the pets, screen the tenants thoroughly. A responsible pet owner is likely to be a responsible tenant. Check references, credit scores, and rental histories to get a sense of the tenant&#39;s reliability and responsibility.We recommend a three-step process to your pet screening; pet interviews, a review of vet records, and a checking of pet references.&nbsp; Pet InterviewInterviewing the pet can give you a good idea of its behavior.&nbsp;Here&#39;s how to go about it:Observe Behavior. Watch how the pet interacts with its owner and strangers. Is it well-behaved or aggressive?Basic Commands. See if the pet responds to basic commands like &quot;sit&quot; or &quot;stay,&quot; indicating it&#39;s well-trained. Pet Vet RecordsRequesting veterinary records is an essential part of the pet screening process. These records can provide valuable information about the pet&#39;s health and behavior.What to Look For:Vaccinations. Ensure the pet is up to date on vaccinations.Spaying/Neutering. Check if the pet has been spayed or neutered, as this can impact behavior.Health Issues. Be aware of any chronic health issues that might affect the pet&#39;s behavior or require frequent vet visits.Pet ReferencesAsk for references from previous landlords or neighbors. A pet that has lived in a rental property before is likely to be accustomed to the rules and environment.Questions to Ask:Behavior. Was the pet well-behaved and quiet?Damage. Did the pet cause any damage to the property?Complaints. Were there any complaints from neighbors? It might feel silly, the idea that you&rsquo;ll be screening animals. But, by following these screening steps, you can ensure that you find responsible pet owners and well-behaved pets, protecting your property and other tenants in the process.Your Pet-Friendly Property is Only as Safe as Your Pet Policy Allows it to Be Before you even begin to think about pet screening and collecting pet fees, you want to make sure you have a solid pet policy in place. By establishing clear pet policies, you can be sure that your property is protected, and your tenant understands your expectations around their residency and the residency of their pet. These should be outlined in your lease agreement and communicated to potential tenants upfront.Let&rsquo;s take a look at what your pet policy should include.Type of PetsSpecify which types of pets are allowed. You can make the decisions here. Pets are not a protected class, so you can be picky for no apparent reason. Maybe you&rsquo;ll allow cats but not dogs. Maybe you&rsquo;re fine with any cats or dogs. Or maybe you are a hard no on cats and dogs but you&rsquo;re fine with fish and birds. Decide what you&rsquo;re willing to consider and what you&rsquo;ll ultimately prohibit and write that into the policy.&nbsp;Breed RestrictionsSome landlords restrict certain breeds based on size or temperament. As we discussed earlier, your insurance carrier may have some thoughts on which dogs might not be covered in your rental policy. Give tenants a list of your own restricted breeds. You can remain open to all breeds, but if you do that, consider requiring your tenants to show up with their own insurance for that pet.&nbsp;Number of PetsLimit the number of pets allowed per household. You can decide how many you&rsquo;ll allow and how many are too many. Maybe it&rsquo;s one dog and one cat. Maybe it&rsquo;s no more than one pet total.&nbsp;Size and Weight LimitsIn addition to restricting the number and types of pets you&rsquo;ll allow, you can also set size or weight limits to minimize potential damage. Allow animals up to 20 pounds, for example. Or you can say small dogs only. You can allow adult cats and dogs but not kittens and puppies.&nbsp;Pet Fees and DepositsCharge a pet deposit or monthly pet fee to cover any potential damage. This should be an important part of your pet policy. You want the extra financial security to cover anything that could go wrong. And, if the pet does no damage at all, you can keep anything that was non-refundable, such as a pet fee or your monthly pet rent.&nbsp;Key Elements of a Pet Addendum in Your LeaseOnce you&#39;ve decided to allow a pet, include a pet agreement addendum in your lease. This document should outline all the pet policies and the consequences of violating them.You&rsquo;ll want this addendum to reflect a description of the pet, including details like breed, weight, and age. It should also list all of the tenant&rsquo;s responsibilities. Outline your expectations, such as waste disposal and pest control. It&rsquo;s also important to include penalties for acting outside of the pet policy or addendum. Specify the consequences for violations, including fines or eviction.Even after the pet has been approved, regular inspections are crucial to ensure ongoing compliance with your pet policies.Still wondering what to do about pets at your rental property? Consulting with a Sheboygan property management professional is always a good place to start. Let&rsquo;s discuss your property and its potential to correspond with pets. Contact our team at Blue Frog Property Management.&nbsp;", "image": "/images/blog/Pet Friendly Rentals in Sheboygan min.png", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/pet-friendly-rentals-pros-cons-and-best-practices"}, 842
843 {"title": "Navigating Legal Landmines: Essential Lease Agreement Tips for Green Bay Landlords", "text": "Mistakes are frustrating but they&rsquo;re also part of being human.&nbsp;You&rsquo;ll have to allow yourself the grace to trip over your own intentions and plans from time to time; to make the wrong choice, go the wrong way, misinterpret some good advice.&nbsp;The problem with making mistakes that involve your Green Bay rental property is that those mistakes are often expensive. There are so many laws, regulations, and requirements to keep up with when you&rsquo;re renting out a property, those mistakes sometimes seem inevitable.&nbsp;They don&rsquo;t have to be.&nbsp;Two things in particular can help you when you&rsquo;re trying to avoid legal landmines that often show up during the leasing period, the tenancy, and certainly the periods when you&rsquo;re providing maintenance services or preparing for a renewal or a move-out. Those two things are:Professional Green Bay property management. Property managers know the laws and focus on remaining compliant. We take classes, attend conferences, and stay up to date on all the existing and pending legislation that impacts your investment.&nbsp;A strong lease agreement. This is often your best defense against legal missteps and conflicts that can turn into court battles.&nbsp;We&rsquo;ll talk about both those points in depth today, but what we want to focus on is your lease agreement. Come with us as we explore the importance of having a lease agreement that&rsquo;s both legally compliant and legally enforceable. We&rsquo;ll make sure you don&rsquo;t leave anything necessary out of your own lease.&nbsp; What Is the Purpose of a Lease Agreement, You Ask?We&rsquo;re glad you asked, actually. It&rsquo;s always shocking to us how many landlords are out there renting homes to tenants without signing an official lease agreement. This is dangerous for you, for your property, and even for those residents.A lease agreement signed by landlords and tenants is a legally binding contract that sets forth what is being provided (a property) and what is being paid (the rent, security deposit, etc.). The purpose of this contract is to set forth the responsibilities of each party. You&rsquo;ll state your expectations of the tenant and you&rsquo;ll be transparent about what they should expect from you.The purpose of a lease is protection. The purpose is consistency. This gives you a starting point if there are any questions during the tenancy. If rent is late, the lease will tell you how much of a late fee to collect. If the tenant is preparing to move out, the lease will express how much notice is necessary.Never rent out a Green Bay home without a written lease agreement.Tips on Where to Get a Green Bay Lease AgreementIf you&rsquo;ve never rented out a property before, you might be wondering where to even find a lease. Should you just download a template from the internet?&nbsp;No. You should not.&nbsp;And here&rsquo;s why.&nbsp;Almost everything can be found on the internet. We understand how easy it might seem to find a lease that looks good, copy and paste it into a document of your own, and hand it over to the tenants to sign. This is not a good idea, actually, and here&rsquo;s why:1.You can&rsquo;t trust everything on the internet(Duh).2.You need a lease agreement that&rsquo;s specific to the state of Wisconsin 3.Do you know who wrote that lease? Probably not an attorney. Nor a property manager. When it&rsquo;s time to provide a lease to your tenants, you want to make sure that lease is both legally compliant in Wisconsin (so you&rsquo;re not putting yourself at risk for lawsuits or complaints or claims) and also legally enforceable in Wisconsin (in case you need to evict or go to court).&nbsp;Here are some of our tips and resources on where to get a lease agreement:&nbsp;Ask a Green Bay property manager. This is why we&rsquo;re here. This is why we&rsquo;re writing this blog. We want to make sure your&rsquo;e feeling empowered and supported, and we&rsquo;re here to offer our services whether you&rsquo;re a landlord with a single rental home or a real estate investor with a vast portfolio of properties. You don&rsquo;t have to do everything alone. You can reach out for support from an expert. Like us. We can talk to you about the lease you&rsquo;ll need to protect your property and your interests when a tenant is living in y
843our rental home.&nbsp;Talk to an experienced landlord/tenant attorney. A legal lease agreement can be provided by a lawyer. Look for someone who has experience in real estate law, property management law, and all of the laws around eviction, habitability, security deposits, and other concerns (which will be addressed in your lease). If you&rsquo;re not sure where to find an attorney but you know that&rsquo;s where you want to get your lease agreement in addition to some legal advice, we can make a referral.&nbsp;Professional organizations and associations. Consider groups like the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM) or the Wisconsin Apartment Association will have lease templates that can work for you. Get in touch with the city of Green Bay as well, which provides fact sheets and resources to landlords looking for help.Any of these points of contact will be better than a random internet search when you&rsquo;re looking for a lease agreement.&nbsp;What to Include in your Green Bay Lease AgreementEvery lease agreement must start with the obvious contact information and the address of the rental property. Make sure you include the name of the people on the lease, how they can be reached, and the name of the property owner and how you can be reached. If you&rsquo;re working with a Green Bay property manager, their contact information must be included as well. If you&rsquo;re working with a Green Bay property manager, of course, they&rsquo;re likely taking care of all the leasing details for you.Let&rsquo;s take a look at which legal clauses and terms are most important in helping you avoid disaster. Make sure you&rsquo;re including these things in your lease.Rent Collection PolicyIt&rsquo;s important that you have a detailed, transparent, and clear rent collection policy in your lease agreement. You don&rsquo;t want your tenants to have a good excuse for not knowing when rent was due or how much to pay. The elements of a solid rent collection policy include:Amount that&rsquo;s due. Be specific and inclusive of all pet fees, additional charges, or any other costs that are on top of the base rental amount. Put a final, all-inclusive figure in the lease. Mae sure you indicate whether utilities are included or paid separately or in addition to the rent.&nbsp;Date the rent is due.&nbsp;Normally rent is due on the first of the month. So, make sure the lease indicates that. If you&rsquo;re allowing rent to be paid on a different day of the month, make sure it&rsquo;s in writing. Your lease should state what happens if the first of the month (or other due date) falls on a Saturday, a Sunday, or a holiday. Is it due the following business day? Or is it still due on that day?Grace periods.&nbsp;Many lease agreements will allow for a grace period. So, maybe rent is due on the first but not considered late until the third. Be specific. Your lease should state when rent is officially late.&nbsp;Late penalties. Once rent is late, what are the penalties for that late payment? If you&rsquo;re going to charge a late fee, that must be included in your lease. You have to indicate how much the late fee will be and when and how it will be collected. Include other penalties and consequences to late rent, including eviction.Be prepared to enforce your rent collection policies. This is an important part of the lease agreement that you&rsquo;ll want to discuss with your tenants before they actually sign the lease and move in.Security Deposit Amount and ReturnWith any discussion of rent comes the corresponding discussion of security deposits.&nbsp;A security deposit is charged in order to protect you against property damage, lease breaks, and unpaid rent. Your lease must reflect how much of a security deposit you collect. And while Wisconsin has no limit on how much you&rsquo;re able to ask, you want to remain competitive and be smart about how much cash you&rsquo;re asking a tenant to come up with in order to move into your property. Collect this amount at the lease signing, and let the lease indicate the receipt of that amount.To avoid disputes, claims, and court appearances, make sure your lease reflects how a tenant can get a full refund of the security deposit. When you&rsquo;re clear about what you expect the property to look like when they move out, you&rsquo;ll both be in a better position. Landlords in Wisconsin can withhold money from the security deposit for:&nbsp;Unpaid rentUnpaid utilitiesCleaning costs (to return the property to how it looked when the tenant took possession)Early termination of the leaseProperty damage exceeding normal wear and tearThat last bullet point is where most legal pitfalls can occur. What you might consider damage could easily be interpreted as normal wear and tear by your tenants. Make sure you&rsquo;re documenting everything, including and especially the deductions you&rsquo;re making from the deposit.&nbsp;Finally, make sure the security deposit section of your lease states that you&rsquo;ll return the deposit to your tenant&rsquo;
843s last known address within 21 days of move-out. This is the legal requirement in the state.&nbsp;Landlord and Tenant Responsibilities&nbsp;Your lease needs to establish who is responsible for what during the tenancy.&nbsp;Landlord Responsibilities&nbsp; Defining the landlord&#39;s responsibilities sets expectations for tenant rights and expectations.What to include:&nbsp;Maintenance and repair responsibilities.Providing access to essential functions like heat, hot water, etc.Pest control.Landscaping(These are examples. You might have tenants listed as responsible for lawn care, etc. in your own lease). Tenant Responsibilities&nbsp;Clearly stating tenant responsibilities helps avoid potential conflicts over maintenance and upkeep.What to include:&nbsp;Maintenance and repair responsibilities such as changing air filters and light bulbs or reporting maintenance needs in a timely manner.&nbsp;Prohibited activities (e.g., subletting, smoking, engaging in illegal activities on the premises).Paying rent on time. Conditions for Terminating the LeaseYou&rsquo;ll want your lease to include a termination clause as well. This is essential because it allows either party to end the lease under certain circumstances, protecting both parties&#39; interests. Make sure this section includes grounds for termination on your end (for example, non-payment of rent or breach of lease terms). Include the notice period that&rsquo;s required for the tenant to terminate the lease and the reasons under which they might be permitted to do so if it&rsquo;s not the natural end of the lease term. &nbsp;Tenant PrivacyTenants are entitled to be left alone in their homes. While this is a property you&nbsp;own, it&rsquo;s also the home where your tenants&nbsp;live. Avoid disputes with your tenants and legal complaints lodged against you by implementing a notice period, and include it in the lease. If you&rsquo;re planning to conduct an annual inspection or a maintenance walk-through during the tenancy, you&rsquo;ll want the lease to reflect that as well.&nbsp;Disclosures and Legal AddendaMake sure your lease agreement includes all of the necessary disclosures and addenda, including information about lead paint and:Past Code Violations (Section 2.18). Disclosure of any current or past code violations is required to ensure tenants are aware of the property&rsquo;s condition.Shared Utilities (Section 2.19). Landlords must provide a list of shared utilities and the formula for dividing costs among tenants, promoting transparency and fairness in utility billing. If your tenants are required to establish and pay their own utility accounts, this will matter less for you and your lease.Sex Offender Notice.Electronic Delivery Disclosure.Notice of Domestic Abuse Protections.&nbsp;This does not cover everything that you&rsquo;ll need to include in your lease agreement. However, these are the most important parts of the lease that will help you avoid those legal landmines, which we&rsquo;ll talk about now.&nbsp;Legal Landmines and Laws You Don&rsquo;t Want to IgnoreWhere are you most likely to make a legal mistake? Based on our experience managing rental properties in Green Bay, the following legal landmines are the most dangerous for rental property owners. These are the potential problems against which a good lease will protect you.Fair Housing Violations&nbsp;Fair housing laws have been established for decades. At the federal level, there are seven protected classes against whom you cannot discriminate when it comes to choosing tenants or managing your investment property. You cannot make decisions or take actions based on a person&rsquo;s:&nbsp;RaceColorReligionNational OriginFamilial StatusSexDisabilityThe Wisconsin state went even further. You cannot discriminate based on creed, source of income, or gender identity, either.&nbsp;It&rsquo;s easier than you think to violate a fair housing law. The wrong language in your marketing can create a dispute. Screening one tenant to different standards than another can look like discrimination.&nbsp;You need to know the difference between a service animal and an emotional support animal, and why they&rsquo;re not pets.&nbsp;Security Deposit Issues&nbsp;Security deposit mistakes can be costly, too. If you&rsquo;re too late in returning the tenant&rsquo;s security deposit to them, or if you withhold money for reasons that the tenant believes is unlawful, they can sue you for the amount of the deposit, plus court costs and legal fees. This is not a battle you want to participate in. When you make deductions, make sure you have the documentation necessary to back them up, and always return the deposit in enough time. Ask the tenant for a forwarding address before they move out so you have a reliable place to send the deposit. Otherwise you&rsquo;ll have to send it to their last known address, which is potentially your property. &nbsp;Eviction MistakesYou&rsquo;ll need a lawful reason to evict your tenant before the end of the lease. You cannot change the locks, nor can you shut off the utilities, and you don&rsquo;t want to show up at the property ready for a fight. All of those things will only lead to major legal trouble for you.&nbsp;Before you can evict, you need to provide a notice that lets the tenants know you&rsquo;re terminating their lease. Then, you have to file in court and wait out the process. Maybe your tenants will leave before the eviction or rectify the situation that is leading you to evict, but if they don&rsquo;t, prepare for your day in court.&nbsp;
843We always recommend that you talk to a Green Bay property manager or an attorney before you attempt to evict a tenant.&nbsp;We recommend you talk to a Green Bay property manager or an attorney before you create a lease agreement, too.&nbsp;This blog shows you why.&nbsp;Let&rsquo;s talk about what we can do to create a better lease agreement for you and your tenants. Please contact us at Blue Frog Property Management.&nbsp;", "image": "/images/blog/Navigating Legal Landmines min.png", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/navigating-legal-landmines-essential-lease-agreement-tips-for-landlords"}, 844 845 {"title": "Boost Your Rental Income: Smart Renovations for Maximum ROI in Green Bay", "text": "Worried about the costs of renovations and what you&rsquo;ll have to put into your Green Bay rental property just to get anything out of it?&nbsp;That&rsquo;s an understandable concern.&nbsp;You don&rsquo;t want to spend more money than you&rsquo;ll earn back.&nbsp;However, smart renovations and upgrades are worth your time, money, and other resources when you&rsquo;re trying to increase what you earn in rent. And there&rsquo;s even more to gain. In addition to earning more in the short-term with a higher monthly income, you&rsquo;ll also earn more money in the long-term, especially when you consider tenant retention, property values, equity gain, and other advantages.&nbsp;In short, renovations are great for maximizing ROI. They&rsquo;re good for attracting and retaining high quality residents and making your investment property more profitable.&nbsp;But they have to be the right renovations. They have to make sense, and they have to make money.Let&rsquo;s look at some of the best ways to boost your rental income with smart renovations.&nbsp;Renovations: A Pro &amp; Con List Benefits of Renovating Your Green Bay Rental Increased Property ValueHigher RentsQuality TenantsCompetitive Advantage on the MarketLower Maintenance CostsContributes to Longevity Challenges of Renovating Your Green Bay Rental Budgeting for Renovations&nbsp;Finding Quality Contractors and VendorsDealing with Tenant ExpectationsWorking with the Inevitable Surprises We want to dig a little deeper into each of these bullet points, and then we&rsquo;ll talk about the renovations that make the most sense.Those Good Points: Why You Want to Renovate Increased Property ValueRenovating your rental property can substantially increase its market value. Upgraded kitchens, modern bathrooms, and well-maintained exteriors are highly attractive to potential buyers and tenants. When you decide to sell, these improvements can result in a higher selling price, ensuring a profitable exit strategy for your investment.Higher Rental IncomeReal estate investment renovations often lead to an increase in rental income. Tenants are willing to pay a premium for properties that offer modern amenities and a comfortable living experience. For instance, adding energy-efficient appliances or upgrading the heating and cooling systems can justify a higher rent, boosting your monthly cash flow.Attracting Quality TenantsRenovated properties are more likely to attract high-quality tenants who are looking for well-maintained homes. These tenants are often willing to sign longer leases, reducing turnover rates and ensuring a steady income stream. You&rsquo;ll have less vacancy to worry about and by retaining these tenants, you&rsquo;ll also have fewer turnover costs.&nbsp;Competitive Edge in the Green Bay Rental MarketIn a busy rental market, having a renovated property gives you a competitive edge. Prospective tenants will be more inclined to choose your property over others that may not offer the same level of comfort and modernity.Lower Maintenance CostsInvesting in renovations today can save you significant maintenance costs in the future. Upgrading plumbing, electrical systems, and roofing, for example, can prevent costly repairs down the line. By addressing these issues proactively and making improvements before things can deteriorate, you maintain the property&#39;s condition and avoid unexpected expenses.Increased Property LongevityRenovations can improve the structural integrity of your property. Addressing issues like foundation cracks, outdated electrical wiring, or deteriorating roofing can extend the lifespan of your property, protecting your investment for years to come.Regular updates to the aesthetics and functionality of your property keep it relevant and appealing in the long term. Trends in home design evolve, and keeping your property up to date ensures it remains attractive to tenants and, eventually, buyers.Challenges to Prepare for During Rental Renovations Budget ConstraintsSticking to a budget is one of the toughest parts of any renovation project. Unexpected costs can quickly add up, putting a strain on your finances. You can overcome this challenge by planning thoroughly. Create a detailed budget that includes all potential expenses, including a contingency fund for unexpected costs. You can also collect multiple quotes from contractors to ensure you&rsquo;re getting a fair price. Prioritize what you&rsquo;re doing. We&rsquo;ll talk more about this in a bit; focusing on renovations that offer the highest return on investment (ROI) will help yo avoid overspending. &nbsp;Finding Reliable ContractorsHiring trustworthy and skilled contractors can be challenging if you don&rsquo;t have these relationships in place already. Unreliable contractors can lead to delays, shoddy workmanship, and increased costs.Do your research before hiring anyone. Check reviews, ask for references, and verify licenses and insurance. Make sure that you have a detailed contract outlining the scope of work, timelines, and payment schedules. It&rsquo;s always important to maintain open and clear communication throughout the project to avoid misunderstandings.A tip to overcoming this challenge: work with a Green Bay property manager on your rental property renovations. We already have a team of trusted, reliable, and cost-effective contractors. And, we&rsquo;ll do all the negotiating, communicating, and project management for you.&nbsp;Managing Tenant ExpectationsIf you&rsquo;re making updates and upgrades while a tenant is in place, you might find that renovations can be disruptive to tenants. Balancing their comfort while completing the work can be tricky. Make sure you inform them in advance about the renovation schedule and expected duration. Try to schedule work when tenants are less likely to be home so you can minimize the disruption that it causes.&nbsp;Surprises and Unforeseen IssuesRenovation projects often uncover hidden problems, such as mold, structural issues, or outdated wiring, which can complicate and delay the project. It&rsquo;s impossible to prepare for everything, but you should always have a contingency plan in place. Budget for what you can&rsquo;t possibly see coming, too, and address any issues right away. Flexibility is important.&nbsp;
845What Are the Smartest Investments a Rental Property Owner Can Make?Let&rsquo;s put on the thinking caps.Our experience as Green Bay property management experts tells us that these are the best improvements you can make when you&rsquo;re increasing ROI for your investment property.Function AppliancesLightingHVAC Aesthetics Curb appealLandscapingPaintFloorsFixturesFeatures&nbsp; Pet-friendly AmenitiesSmart Home UpgradesSustainable Features Functional Upgrades and RenovationsThere is maintenance, which is important on its own, and then there are the upgrades and renovations that keep your Green Bay rental property functional, habitable, and a good place for tenants to live. When you consider functional upgrades and updates, we invite you to think about repairs versus replacements. Is it worth it to keep repairing a refrigerator every year? Or, should you replace that older model with a new one instead?&nbsp;Appliances&nbsp;Upgrading your appliances will deliver a lot of ROI. You&rsquo;ll have to spend some money in order to acquire those appliances, but in the end, you&rsquo;ll earn higher rents, attract better tenants, retain those tenants, and improve the condition and the value of your property. Focus on kitchen appliances. You don&rsquo;t necessarily have to upgrade to stainless models unless all of your competitors are offering stainless kitchen appliances. In that case, it&rsquo;s a good idea to buy them for your own property. Look for energy-efficient models that will save money on utilities and look great in your property. Tenants are looking for convenience, and that means a dishwasher and an in-unit washer and dryer. Appliances are an excellent place to start when it comes to renovating and updating your investment.&nbsp;LightingLighting is largely about aesthetics, but it also qualifies as an essential function that your property needs. Indoor lighting has to be intentional. Tenants will want brighter lights in the kitchen and the bathrooms, while a softer light in living spaces and bedrooms will work better. Outside, lighting should be all about security and safety. Make sure there&rsquo;s a bright light at the front door or any entries. Tenants will want to feel safe coming home and they&rsquo;ll also want to be able to see who might be at the door of their home when it&rsquo;s dark out. Consider installing motion-detected lights on garages, outdoor sheds, and other exterior spaces.&nbsp;HVAC&nbsp;Your heating and cooling system is perhaps one of your most expensive household functions. Keep it well-maintained so you don&rsquo;t have to make expensive replacements, and when your HVAC tech suggests making some updates and upgrades during service calls, be willing to hear them. You don&rsquo;t want any rusting coils or dusty air vents. Keep up with air filter changes, too.&nbsp;Aesthetic Renovations That Increase ROI for Green Bay Investment PropertiesLike buyers, tenants are emotional creatures. They&rsquo;ll want to connect on an emotional level with a home before they agree to complete an application and sign a lease. The best way to reach them on that level is by making your property look attractive.&nbsp;What contributes to an attractive rental home? Several things. When we&rsquo;re talking about the renovations that you choose in order to increase ROI, we recommend you focus on these aesthetic improvements.&nbsp;Curb Appeal and Landscaping&nbsp;We don&rsquo;t have to tell you how important first impressions are. Major buying decisions are made based on the immediate perceptions a consumer has of a product or service. This applies to tenants and rental properties, too. You want to grab prospective tenants&rsquo; attention in a positive way and hold onto it. This is best accomplished by providing the &ldquo;wow&rdquo; factor as soon as they drive by, walk by, or pull up for a showing. When it comes to good curb appeal, you&rsquo;ll want to start with landscaping. Whether you&rsquo;re renting out a single-family home or a multi-family unit, make sure the grass is cut and green. Trim back any rogue branches on trees and bushes. Pull weeds. Apply fresh mulch to flower beds and shrubs.&nbsp;Evaluate the exterior paint on your property. Does it need a fresh coat? If not, perhaps a good power-washing will breathe fresh life into the structure of the property. Make sure the front entrance and any outdoor space is clear of debris, trash, and old items that may have been collected like trash bins and furniture.&nbsp;Paint&nbsp;We talked about the importance of exterior paint, and the interior paint requirement should seem like an obvious and necessary upgrade. You likely repaint your property during every turnover peri
845od, and that&rsquo;s a good idea. While paint may not seem like a renovation, you can make it a valuable part of increasing ROI by investing in high quality paint. This will be more durable, easier to clean, and it may cut down on the frequency with which you do have to repaint between tenants.&nbsp;Floors&nbsp;Sad looking carpet has long been a fixture in rental homes across Green Bay, and if you want to set your property apart from others on the market and earn some higher rents from better tenants, you&rsquo;ll tear out that sad carpet and invest in some quality flooring. You don&rsquo;t have to go full hardwoods. Instead, install a good laminate. There are a lot of options. Some flooring will snap right into place and other flooring can be customized to your property at a price that isn&rsquo;t horrifying. Investigate the options. Talk to some flooring experts. Give your tenants a good reason to choose your rental property over all the others.&nbsp;Here&rsquo;s why hard surface flooring is such as valuable and ROI-rich upgrade:It&rsquo;s easier to clean and maintain.It&rsquo;s healthier. Fewer odors, less dust, and zero allergens will get stuck like they do in carpet fibers.It looks better.&nbsp;It&rsquo;s a better long term investment; you won&rsquo;t have to replace it during every turnover.Consider those hard surface floors, especially in common areas like living rooms, dens, and dining areas. This is especially beneficial when you allow pets. Trying to remove pet odors from carpet is nearly impossible.&nbsp;Fixtures&nbsp;Fixtures are extremely aesthetic and very easy to renovate at a low price. Think about the faucets on your sinks. Think about the mirror in your bathroom. The drawer pulls. The plates over your light switches. All these things are extremely affordable and yet give the property a new, modern feel. A tile backsplash behind the sink or stove will only require a handful of tiles and make the place look great.Special Renovation Features That Make You MoneyOutside of functions and aesthetics, what kind of features will draw people to your property?&nbsp;Here&rsquo;s a brief list:Pet-friendly amenities&nbsp; We always encourage property owners to allow pets in their property. You will reduce your vacancy, increase your tenant retention, and earn more money. With pets, you can charge pet rent and collect a pet deposit. When you&rsquo;re looking for high-quality renovations, think about your tenants with pets and do what you can to make living in your property more convenient and even more fun. We&rsquo;re thinking about built-in cat towers. Dog and cat beds. A fenced yard. Cat doors. Doggie bags strategically located throughout the community. All of these things increase the value of your property by making it more attractive to tenants with pets.&nbsp; Smart Home Upgrades Technology is a big deal for all of us, including the tenants you&rsquo;re trying to attract to your home. They&rsquo;re looking for smart home technology, and while this can be an expensive renovation, it&rsquo;s one that&rsquo;s becoming more and more necessary for owners who want to stay on the cutting edge of tenant demands and market shifts. Start small. Install a video doorbell, for example, so tenants can enjoy extra security and check to see who is at the door from an app on their phones. Digital keypads and smart locks are also a good idea, eliminating the need to rekey your property between tenants. Smart thermostats will keep energy bills low for your tenants, too, and that&rsquo;s going to help you market your rental home.&nbsp; Sustainable and Green Features Environmental stewardship is also gaining traction as a tenant trend. Today&rsquo;s residents are thinking about the climate and they&rsquo;re thinking about how to be less of a burden to the planet. When you show them that your&rsquo;e invested in sustainable living, you&rsquo;re going to get a lot of attention. You&rsquo;ll also be able to raise your rents and rely on the long-term payoff that c
845omes with upgrading systems now to be greener. We&rsquo;ve already talked about energy-efficient appliances and smart thermostats. Think about low-flow toilets and showers. Invest in better insulation. Convert to LED lights. Look for energy vampires in your property and make the necessary replacements.&nbsp; Choosing the smartest renovations for your Green Bay investment property is highly specific to the age and condition of your property as well as the neighborhood that you&rsquo;re in. These are some general recommendations we have for smart upgrades and renovations that will make you more money now and in the future. For a more specific and personalized assessment of where you should make your renovations, we&rsquo;d need to take a look at your property and examine the competing properties in the local neighborhood and market.&nbsp;Let&rsquo;s do that. When you need some advice from an experienced Green Bay&nbsp;property management expert, contact us at Blue Frog Property Management. We&rsquo;d love to help you earn more money.", "image": "/images/blog/Boost Your Rental Income min_2.png", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/boost-your-rental-income-smart-renovations-for-maximum-roi"}, 846 847 {"title": "What Is a 1031 Exchange? | Green Bay Property Investing Expertise", "text": "If you&rsquo;re not yet familiar with a 1031 exchange, it&rsquo;s worth learning about the benefit this type of transaction can provide to real estate investors in Green Bay. The 1031 exchange allows you to defer the capital gains taxes that you may owe after selling a property by reinvesting those earnings into a new piece of income-producing real estate. &nbsp;This is an effective investment strategy for many Green Bay rental property owners, especially if you feel that one of your properties isn&rsquo;t working for you any longer and you&rsquo;d like to sell it without a huge tax penalty.&nbsp;A 1031 exchange can be confusing, however, and it&rsquo;s helpful to have a professional help you navigate the process.Why a 1031 Exchange Might Make Sense for You&nbsp;When you sell a rental property, you are required to pay taxes on the money that you earn from the sale. One of the ways to defer those taxes is to buy a new property or several new properties that are similar to the one you&rsquo;ve sold.&nbsp;If you know you stand to make an impressive profit off the home you want to sell and you&rsquo;re facing a large tax bill &ndash; the 1031 exchange is an excellent idea.&nbsp;Investors who are frustrated with rental properties that aren&rsquo;t performing well can also benefit from a 1031 exchange. Perhaps your single-family home is aging and has constant maintenance issues or it&rsquo;s in an area that is no longer attractive to tenants. Consider selling that property and investing in something else. You can sell a single-family home and buy a duplex. Or, you can sell a series of condos to buy a single-family home.&nbsp;Steps to Take with a 1031 ExchangeSpecific steps need to be taken and important timelines need to be met when you want to defer your taxes with a 1031 exchange.&nbsp;Make sure your property qualifies. This tax benefit is meant for income-producing properties. You cannot do this with the home you&rsquo;ve been living in for the last decade. &nbsp;Look for similar properties. This doesn&rsquo;t mean you have to exchange one apartment unit for another apartment unit. As long as you&rsquo;re exchanging one rental home for another rental home, you&rsquo;re covered. It&rsquo;s also important to measure the value of the new home you&rsquo;re purchasing. It must be worth the same amount or more than the property you&rsquo;re selling. &nbsp;Find the new property or properties you expect to buy.Follow all timelines. You&rsquo;ll need to identify a replacement property within 45 days of selling your original property. Then, you have 180 days to close on the new sale.&nbsp;Use an intermediary and don&rsquo;t take any of the cash from the sale of your property. The intermediary will hold your funds in escrow until they can be reinvested in your new purchase.Planning an Exit Strategy The 1031 exchange is one good way to keep all of the money you earn off the sale of an investment. However, it isn&rsquo;t a tax-free solution. You&rsquo;re not being excused from paying taxes; you&rsquo;re simply gaining more time.&nbsp;You can continue doing 1031 exchanges over and over again. Many investors leave the property to their heirs, which comes with a step-up privilege. This allows the beneficiary to avoid paying all of those deferred taxes.&nbsp;If you have any questions about how to take advantage of tax benefits, or you need help with a 1031 exchange, please contact us at Blue Frog Property Management. We&rsquo;d be happy to help you save a little money when you&rsquo;re buying and selling Green Bay rental properties.&nbsp;", "image": "https://youtu.be/q3AUr6BZ6Uw", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/what-is-a-1031-exchange"}, 848 849 {"title": "When Can I Expect to See ROI? | Green Bay Property Management", "text": " For&nbsp;real estate investors, a healthy return on investment is one of the main reasons to buy and rent out property. The money you earn on your investment property&nbsp;will show up in a number of different ways. There will be cash flow and rental income, tax benefits and depreciation, and the growing appreciation as your rental income pays down your mortgage and the value of your property increases.&nbsp;When you actually begin to feel like you&rsquo;re earning money will depend on a number of things, specifically the market and the amount of rent you&rsquo;re able to charge. Vacancy and large repairs will hold back your return on investment gains, but higher rents and long term tenants will improve it.Here are a few ways to find the ROI you&rsquo;re looking for.&nbsp;Capital Appreciation and Increasing ValueMost investors don&rsquo;t start earning money in the first month that they own a rental property. Usually, the amount of rent you collect will not exceed the expenses associated with the rental property.&nbsp;Instead, you&rsquo;ll earn ROI through capital appreciation. This is the increase of a home&rsquo;s market value compared to its purchase price or acquisition cost. When you factor appreciation into your investment strategy, you&rsquo;ll see that it will help you earn the income you&rsquo;re hoping for as the property increases in value. &nbsp;Green Bay real estate values will increase, and so will your appreciation and ROI.&nbsp;Earn More ROI Quickly with Improvements and UpgradesYou can earn more on your investment property when it&rsquo;s well-maintained, modern, and attractive to high quality tenants. If your kitchen has appliances that are 40 years old and your bathroom floors are linoleum from the 1970s, you&rsquo;re probably losing good tenants. Make sure the home is clean, painted, and shows well.&nbsp;If your home is new and already in great condition, don&rsquo;t spend a lot on upgrades now. To really maximize your investment, you&rsquo;ll want to wait until you need to begin replacing things such as floors, appliances, and fixtures. Upgrade your property during turnover peri
849ods so you can ask for higher rents. This will increase your short term income and your long term return on investment.Depreciation and Tax Benefits Impact ROIYour ROI is about more than the money you&rsquo;re earning. You&rsquo;ll see a return just by taking advantage of tax breaks and depreciation.&nbsp;You&rsquo;ll need to declare all the income you earn off your rental property, but you can offset that income with any expenses related to your rental home. These may include:Maintenance costs&nbsp;Legal and accounting feesProperty management feesAny travel expenses related to visits you made to your propertyThere are several others, and we encourage you to speak with your CPA or tax accountant to get an idea of what you should be deducting to limit your tax liability.&nbsp;Depreciation allows you to deduct the investment and purchase costs of your rental property. Even better, you get to take this depreciation over the life of the investment instead of just in the year you purchase it. Currently the IRS has an average lifespan of 27.5 years on record for a home, so that&rsquo;s the number you&rsquo;ll use in your tax planning.&nbsp;We can help you identify the return on your investment property in Green Bay. We can also help you manage your expectations if you&rsquo;re preparing to rent out a home for the first time. Contact us at Blue Frog Property Management.", "image": "https://youtu.be/ijlIxJXWH-M", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/when-can-i-expect-to-see-roi"}, 850 851 {"title": "What Type of Investment Property in Green Bay Should I Buy? Rental Properties 101", "text": " At Blue Frog Property Management, we work with both single-family homes and multi-family units. We know that investors have different goals and plans when they acquire a rental property, and sometimes it makes sense to buy a single-family home while other times a multi-family unit or an entire building will be a better solution.For a diverse and profitable real estate portfolio, we recommend buying both types of investment property. If you&rsquo;re wondering what type of rental home to buy right now, we have some things for you to think about.&nbsp;Green Bay Single-Family Rental Properties and Tenant Retention&nbsp;A single-family home is always a great investment option because they are always in demand among highly qualified tenants.&nbsp;An additional benefit to this type of investment is that you&rsquo;re likely to have positive tenant retention. The residents you attract with a well-maintained single-family home in a good location will want stability, and they are likely to take care of the home just like it&rsquo;s their own. This will save you money on turnover costs as well as maintenance. You likely won&rsquo;t be bothered to make extremely minute repairs and cosmetic changes. The tenants will take care of whatever they can on their own.&nbsp;Single-family homes also offer investors some great appreciation potential. These types of properties always increase in value. In Green Bay, you can expect to cash flow your single-family home and build some equity quickly. The cost of these homes is not as high as in some other markets in the northeast, and you&rsquo;ll collect a pretty consistent and reliable rent.&nbsp;One of the challenges to owning single-family homes is that your maintenance costs may be higher. Even if your property is new or in good shape and your tenants are good about changing air filters and maintaining the yard, you&rsquo;ll probably spend a little more keeping it in excellent condition. There may be HOA costs that you cannot pass on to your tenants. Unless you&rsquo;re paying in cash, you&rsquo;ll probably need at least 20 percent down when you&rsquo;re looking for a mortgage, especially if you&rsquo;re financing your investment through a traditional bank.&nbsp;Green Bay Multi-Family Properties Avoid Vacancy RiskMulti-family properties are often duplexes, triplexes, or even small apartment buildings. These can be excellent opportunities for new investors who worry about vacancy. When you invest in a multi-family property, you&rsquo;ll have more than one tenant in place, which means you have more than one rental income stream. This is the major benefit of investing in multi-family properties; you will have rent coming in from various sources. So, if one unit is vacant, you aren&rsquo;t losing a lot of money quickly.&nbsp;You still have rental payments coming in from the other units.&nbsp;Economy of scale is another benefit to renting out a multi-family unit. When you need maintenance or landscaping services, you can contract with a vendor who is likely to provide a discount because of the volume of work you need. You&rsquo;ll save time and money maintaining a single building with two or three units. &nbsp;Tenants are more than neighbors with multi-family units; they&rsquo;re often sharing walls and communal space. This means conflicts and disputes can arise between your tenants more frequently. There might be complaints about noise or par
851king or trash or pets. This can take some extra time and lead to frustration for you as the landlord.&nbsp;When you&rsquo;re looking for a great Green Bay investment property, contact a professional Green Bay property management team. We&rsquo;d be happy to help you. Let us know what you&rsquo;re looking for and how we can help you navigate the process. Contact us at Blue Frog Property Management.&nbsp;", "image": "https://youtu.be/F2Bt8hdoFW8", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/what-type-of-investment-property-in-green-bay-should-i-buy"}, 852 853 {"title": "Buying Investment Property? 3 Things You Need to Know as a Green Bay Property Manager", "text": "We work with a number of new real estate investors who quickly become overwhelmed with the requirements and steps of buying a property and renting it out to tenants. Even experienced investors can make expensive mistakes or find themselves dealing with difficult situations in the course of acquiring a property.Our goal is to help you make good decisions and set yourself up for a better investment experience. If you&rsquo;re planning to buy an investment property in Green Bay, we have three specific things you need to know as you move forward.Know the Green Bay Rental MarketHopefully, you&rsquo;ve done a little research and you understand the rental market in the region that you&rsquo;re buying. Once you own property and want to rent it out, understanding the nuances and trends of the local market is essential. This knowledge will help you price your property appropriately, market it to the largest number of potential tenants, and make the necessary updates and upgrades to attract those tenants.Before you buy an investment property, you need to know if most of your tenants will be families looking for good schools, professionals who want an easy commute to work, students and roommates, or retirees who will want access to recreational and entertainment activities. Find out if the area is walkable or if a car is necessary. All of this information will help you identify and purchase the right investment and prepare for how you&rsquo;re going to rent it out.Plan and Budget for MaintenanceMany new investors forget that their expenses do not end once a property is purchased. There will be routine and emergency maintenance costs that cannot be avoided. Even if your home is new and in excellent condition, things will break and repairs will be needed. You&rsquo;ll have to be responsive and ready to meet the needs of your tenant and your property. We recommend that you put aside a reserve so you can easily and quickly pay for those maintenance issues as they arise.Establish a maintenance budget and a plan for getting the property ready for the rental market. Don&rsquo;t buy an investment home that needs a lot of work. Not only will you have to spend a lot of money on renovations and repairs; you&rsquo;ll also delay the listing. The longer you spend preparing the property for the rental market, the larger your vacancy expense.Find a Green Bay Property ManagerWorking with a professional Green Bay property manager will provide you with a positive and lucrative rental experience.You&rsquo;ll want to work with a company that has experience and an excellent reputation, but you also want goals and values that match your own. Look for a long record of effective property management, and talk with them before you buy your investment home. You should get some idea of how much rent you&rsquo;ll earn and what type of tenant you&rsquo;ll attract. Working with a property manager will help you save money on things like vacancy and maintenance. You&rsquo;ll also earn more with better tenants, higher rents, and an efficient management system.These are only three immediate tips that come to mind. There&rsquo;s a lot more we can tell you about Green Bay investment properties. Contact us at Blue Frog Property Management. ", "image": "/images/blog/Buying Investment Property 3 Things You Need to Know as a Green Bay Property Manager.png", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/buying-investment-property-3-things-you-need-to-know"}, 854 855 {"title": "Should I Invest in Green Bay Real Estate? A Look into the Housing Market", "text": "If you haven&rsquo;t considered investing in Green Bay rental real estate, you might want to consider the benefits it can provide to your new or growing portfolio. Green Bay is an outstanding place to visit, live, and invest. Local rental property owners understand the advantages the market here can offer, and out-of-state investors are increasingly realizing there&rsquo;s money to be made in Green Bay rental homes.Whether you&rsquo;re new to investing or full of experience and ideas, we want to tell you some of the reasons why you should invest in our real estate market.Green Bay has a Strong and Growing EconomyThe major industries in Green Bay are manufacturing and healthcare, which are providing opportunities for employment and stability. Good jobs are available with companies like Human, Bellin Health, and Shopko. , Volvo, and even Google. The University of Wisconsin is in Green Bay, and there is a lot of diversity in the market. The strong economy leads to a pool of well-qualified tenants who are looking for attractive, well-maintained homes in desirable neighborhoods.Affordable Investing in Green BayEntering the real estate market in east coast cities like New York, Washington, D.C., and Boston can be nearly impossible without a lot of cash. But in Green Bay, you don&rsquo;t need a nest egg to buy a property. You can find homes for low prices in great neighborhoods, and it&rsquo;s encouraging to investors who are careful with their budgets.Cash flow is attainable, and it&rsquo;s easy to find excellent investment properties for low six figures. You can spend a little more on a single-family home in neighborhoods that have great schools, or you can save by buying a duplex that&rsquo;s close to commuter routes and shopping. All you have to do is decide what you want to buy, and you won&rsquo;
855t have a hard time finding it at a reasonable price.What to Look for When Investing in Green BayWhen you&rsquo;re investing in real estate, you need to know what you&rsquo;re looking for and you need to be able to identify it quickly.Remember that you&rsquo;re not buying a home that you&rsquo;re going to live in yourself right now. Maybe you prefer houses with hardwood floors, granite counters, and a Jacuzzi on the back deck. All of that is great, but the tenants you&rsquo;re hoping to attract won&rsquo;t be looking for the same things.This is going to be a rental home, so as you&rsquo;re evaluating the marketing and looking for opportunities, think like a tenant. Consider location &ndash; is the home close to schools, commuter highways, shopping, and entertainment? Is there off-street parking if you&rsquo;re considering a unit on a busy street? Are there HOA rules if you&rsquo;re thinking about a single-family home in a gated community?Avoid the trap of low-cost homes in need of work. Some investors prefer to buy fixer-uppers, but for an owner who wants to get the property on the rental market quickly, this is not the best way to earn money. Cosmetic upgrades and improvements are fine, but if there&rsquo;s a full renovation that&rsquo;s needed, you&rsquo;ll be investing a lot of money into that work and delaying the rental income you have the potential to earn.When you&rsquo;re ready to buy, do the math. Focus on data and numbers and projections. These things aren&rsquo;t always as fun as aesthetics, but they matter when you&rsquo;re identifying an investment. Estimate your income and expenses and make sure those numbers fit into what you need and expect from this investment.Contact us at Blue Frog Property Management for any additional help when you&rsquo;re ready to invest in Green Bay. We&rsquo;re here to offer resources, support, and professional advice. ", "image": "/images/blog/Should I Invest in Green Bay Real Estate A Look into the Housing Market.png", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/should-i-invest-in-green-bay-real-estate-a-look-into-the-housing-market"}, 856 857 {"title": "How Do Green Bay Real Estate Investors Benefit from Property Management Technology?", "text": "Blue Frog expertly handles both single and multi-family property management in Green Bay and the greater Fox Valley area, including Oshkosh and Fond du Lac, Sheboygan and surrounding areas. We have invested heavily in technology because we know it helps us serve our owners and tenants more efficiently and effectively. Today, we&rsquo;re telling you why it&rsquo;s so important that your property manager understands and embraces technology.Improved Communication and Access to Information for OwnersWhether you&rsquo;re a local landlord or an out-of-state investor, our property management software provides a platform for you to stay informed and engaged with the performance of your property. You can log onto our system at any time to see whether rent has been paid, maintenance invoices have come in, or accounting statements are available. You can follow the income and expenses associated with your property, print out tax forms, and send us a message if you have a question or concern.Easy Rental Payments and Maintenance Requests for TenantsPart of being a successful rental property owner is serving your tenants well. Our property management technology enables exceptional customer service. Tenants can pay rent online and request maintenance and repairs online. This is easy because they can do these things at any time and from any place that&rsquo;s convenient for them. It also gives us instant documentation. We&rsquo;ll always be able to demonstrate when rent was paid or not paid, and how quickly we responded to maintenance requests.Marketing and Leasing your HomeWhen your property is vacant, we use technology to advertise widely online. We can answer questions from prospective tenants, schedule showings, and allow them to submit electronic applications. It makes the process much smoother and reduces your vacancy time.If you would like to learn more about technology and how we use it to expertly management your property, please contact us at Blue Frog Property Management.", "image": "https://youtu.be/oe8VmvRzWWA", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/investors-benefit-from-property-management-technology"}, 858 859 {"title": "How Much Does Property Management Cost in Green Bay, WI?", "text": "The cost of property management in Green Bay and the surrounding area depends on the services you need and the type of property or properties you own. Today, we&rsquo;re sharing some information on our own fees and telling you what you can expect to pay when you&rsquo;re looking for professional management services.Blue Frog expertly handles both single and multi-family property management in Green Bay and the greater Fox Valley area, including Oshkosh, Fond du Lac, Sheboygan and surrounding areas. We have shopped our rates around, and we know
859we&rsquo;re competitively priced, especially when you consider the value you receive.Property Management Fee StructuresMost property management companies will charge either a flat fee or a percentage of the rent that&rsquo;s collected. With a flat fee, you&rsquo;ll pay one set amount every month, regardless of the rental price of your property. With a percentage fee, you&rsquo;ll pay a percentage of the rent that your property manager collects.&nbsp;You can expect to pay a one-time leasing fee as well as a monthly management fee. Some management companies will charge additional fees, but the leasing and management fees can be expected across the board, no matter who you work with.Blue Frog Property Management FeesAt Blue Frog, we charge a lease-up fee, which covers the cost of finding you a tenant, marketing your home, and screening applications.Our management fees depend on your property type and volume. For single-family homes, we charge 10 percent of the monthly rent, which is pretty standard in the industry and the local market. If you have a multi-family property or several properties under management with us, we provide a volume discount that can get you as low as 6 percent of the monthly rent per-property. These are our only costs to you, except for maintenance and repairs.We also have an eviction fee for residents that were not placed by Blue Frog &ndash; many companies charge an eviction fee regardless if they placed the resident.Common Hidden FeesWhen you&rsquo;re looking for professional property management, you might come across some different fees in addition to the leasing and management cost. Some companies will charge an administrative fee or a set-up fee once you sign the management agreement. There could be a technology fee, and a fee for paperwork or serving notices. Talk to your potential property manager about what you&rsquo;ll have to pay before you sign a management agreement. It&rsquo;s important that all fees are transparent.If you have any questions about the cost of Green Bay property management, please contact us at Blue Frog Property Management. We&rsquo;d be happy to tell you more. ", "image": "https://youtu.be/rWPXBvvijjo", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/property-management-cost-in-green-bay-wi"}, 860 861 {"title": "How Much Should Green Bay Property Owners Budget for Rental Maintenance?", "text": "&nbsp;Every rental property will need maintenance, no matter how new it is or how well you protect its condition. It&rsquo;s important to budget for those emergency and routine repairs so you aren&rsquo;t surprised when the bills come rolling in. Today, we&rsquo;re talking about our recommendations for rental maintenance and what you should expect.Blue Frog expertly handles both single and multi-family property management in Green Bay and the greater Fox Valley area, including Oshkosh and Fond du Lac, Sheboygan and surrounding areas. We&rsquo;d be happy to help you with your rental maintenance needs.Emergency Maintenance and Weather IssuesWisconsin has very cold winters, so if a tenant calls because a furnace isn&rsquo;t working at 3:00 in the morning, you&rsquo;re going to need to get a vendor over there right away, no matter how much it costs. If a roof starts leaking or a tree crashes through a window, you&rsquo;ll need to be prepared to respond. Property management is a 24-hour business. If you&rsquo;re not working with a property manager, be sure you are available around the clock.Emergency maintenance calls are often more expensive than routine maintenance work, and it&rsquo;s hard to plan for them. Put aside an emergency maintenance reserve by saving a little of your rental income every month. You won&rsquo;t always need it, but you&rsquo;ll be glad it&rsquo;s there when you do get that panicked phone call from an anxious tenant who needs help at your property.Preventative and Routine MaintenanceAttention to preventative maintenance is the best way to keep costs under control. If you notice a small problem, fix it right away. There&rsquo;s not a single maintenance problem that gets less costly with time. Fix those small leaks and drips now. Have your heating and cooling unit inspected and serviced annually. Clean out the gutters on a regular basis, keep the lawn mowed, and make sure your tenants are changing their filters. Whether you have a single-family home or a duplex, it&rsquo;s important to know which responsibilities are yours and which are your tenant&rsquo;s responsibilities. Have that conversation before your tenants move in.When your house is vacant, make sure it&rsquo;s winterized and keep the heat on low to prevent frozen pipes. You want to do everything you can to prevent minor problems from becoming expensive problems.The Importance of Preferred VendorsWorking with a network of preferred vendors can save you time and money. Professional property managers can often negotiate reduced rates because of the volume of work we provide our preferred vendors and contractors. It&rsquo;s also easy for us to get in touch when there&rsquo;s an emergency overnight or during a holiday or weekend. Trying to get the attention of a plumber you&rsquo;ve never worked with before at 2:00 a.m. on a Saturday is not a good idea.At Blue Frog, we conduct interim interior inspections at least once a year, we do drive-by inspections, and we&rsquo;re available when there&rsquo;s an emergency. We also keep a close eye on your property when it&rsquo;s vacant. These things save you money on maintenance costs.If you&rsquo;d like to talk about your maintenance budget and what your property needs, please contact us at Blue Frog Property Management. We&rsquo;d be happy to tell you more.", "image": "https://youtu.be/0MM3rXBYM9w", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/budget-for-rental-maintenance"}, 862 863 {"title": "How Can We Manage Our Long Distance Green Bay Property?", "text": "When you need to move out of the Green Bay area and you plan to rent out your home instead of selling it, you&rsquo;ll need a lot of help. Many property owners ask us how they can take care of business from far away, and our answer is pretty simple: you shouldn&rsquo;t.Blue Frog expertly handles both single and multi-family property management in Green Bay and the greater Fox Valley area, including Oshkosh, Fond du Lac, Sheboygan and surrounding areas. We work with out-of-state investors all the time, and some of our clients are even out of the country. If you&rsquo;re a long distance landlord, we recommend you get professional help from a local property manager.Balancing Risk from AfarPlenty can go wrong when you try to manage a property from another state, another country, or even the other side of Wisconsin. If your tenants have an emergency in the middle of the night, they&rsquo;ll need to get in contact with you quickly, and you&rsquo;ll need to send someone over to the property to find out what&rsquo;s going on and to manage any damage. This could be a challenge. You&rsquo;ll also risk losing touch with the local rental market. You won&rsquo;t know what&rsquo;s happening with properties in the community, and that will make it difficult to set rental prices and decide when to raise them.How will you market and show the property when it&rsquo;s vacant? Who will conduct inspections? You risk missing a lot of the details that come with managing properties if don&rsquo;t have a local presence who can be the eyes and ears for your property.Professional Property Management SolutionsWith a professional property manager who understands the local market and is physically close to your property, you&rsquo;ll have a lot more peace of mind. Your property manager understands the laws and keeps you in compliance. Your property w
863on&rsquo;t go unattended and instead will be well-maintained. If your tenant has an emergency or needs a repair, your property manager will take care of it for you. This is a major benefit for all property owners, but especially those who live out of the area. Trying to be a DIY landlord from somewhere else is complicated and risky.Technology Keeps you in ContactA good property management company invests in technology, ensuring you are informed and in touch if you&rsquo;re out of the area. With an online owner&rsquo;s portal, you can check your rent payments, view lease documents, and check on repair invoices and requests. Your property manager will provide regular updates on your home, including pictures and videos when inspections are conducted. You&rsquo;ll have access to this information no matter where in the world you are.If you have any questions about the benefits of professional management when you&rsquo;re no longer in the Green Bay area, contact us at Blue Frog Property Management. We&rsquo;d be happy to tell you more.", "image": "https://youtu.be/lpnMX0vuUEc", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/managing-long-distance-green-bay-property"}, 864 865 {"title": "What to Do When a Tenant Stops Paying Rent | Green Bay Landlord Tips", "text": "One of the things you should be able to count on as a landlord is regular rental income. If your tenant doesn&rsquo;t pay rent, you need to act quickly and decisively. You don&rsquo;t want to set a precedent that you&rsquo;ll allow consistently late payments or partial payments. Today, we&rsquo;re explaining our process when a tenant doesn&rsquo;t pay rent.Blue Frog expertly handles both single and multi-family property management in Green Bay and the greater Fox Valley area, including Oshkosh, Fond du Lac, Sheboygan and surrounding areas.Serve Tenants a 5 Day NoticeYour lease should state when rent is due, and when it&rsquo;s considered late. Once you don&rsquo;t receive the rent, you&rsquo;ll need to serve a 5 Day Notice. This is a legal notice that advises the tenant you have not received rent, and they have five days to pay the rent or leave the property. If you don&rsquo;t receive a rental payment by the end of that five day period, you can begin eviction proceedings.Scheduling a Court HearingYou aren&rsquo;t able to physically remove your tenant from the property until you have filed an eviction lawsuit and received a judgment in court. You&rsquo;ll get a court date and the tenants will be served. When you go to court, make sure you have all of your supporting documentation with you. This should include a copy of the lease, a copy of the 5 Day Notice, and your accounting ledger or printed statements that show how much the tenant owes.You should easily win a judgment assuming you can show that your tenants haven&rsquo;t paid. Make sure you complete your paperwork correctly. If you make even a minor error, you&rsquo;ll have to start the entire process over again.Cost of Evictions in WisconsinEvictions will include court fees, expenses for the process service, and the Writ of Restitution. If your tenant contests the eviction, you may find that the hearing takes longer, becomes more complicated, and gets more expensive. We recommend that you talk to an attorney. This may add to your cost initially, but getting your nonpaying tenant out of the property quickly so you can get a better tenant in place is your main goal. An attorney knows the process and can keep it moving quickly through the court system.Remember, you cannot illegally evict a tenant. Don&rsquo;t show up to the property and confront them. You cannot change the locks while they&rsquo;re out or shut off the water. Let the court process do its work, and talk to a lawyer or a property manager. If you need any help with evictions, contact us at Blue Frog Property Management.", "image": "https://youtu.be/h2TygGaAmDU", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/what-to-do-when-a-tenant-stops-paying-rent"}, 866 867 {"title": "Why Work with Blue Frog for Green Bay Property Management", "text": "There are a number of excellent reasons to work with us, and today we&rsquo;re highlighting a few of the best reasons. Blue Frog expertly handles both single and multi-family property management in Green Bay and the greater Fox Valley area, including Oshkosh, Fond du Lac, Sheboygan and surrounding areas. We&rsquo;d love to talk to you about your rental property.Talented, Experienced Property Management TeamBlue Frog Property Management is successful because of its skilled, knowledgeable, and talented team of professionals. Our team has been investing in real estate for nearly a decade. When it was time to find a property manager, we couldn&rsquo;t find one that met our specific needs. So, we decided to create a property management company that worked from the perspective of an owner or investor. We have managed hundreds of units and have developed an expertise in property preservation. Blue Frog also works closely with contractors and vendors to ensure the properties we manage are kept in excellent condition.You deserve a property manager who can help you earn more and spend less. A good property manager will provide the knowledge and experience that&rsquo;s necessary to effectively manage your home and build your ROI.Protecting your Investment: Tenant ScreeningThe tenant you place in your rental property has a huge impact on whether you have a profitable rental experience or a disastrous one. We carefully and thoroughly screen tenants, and we have very high standards for the renter
867s we&rsquo;re willing to place in your home. This explains why our eviction rate is so low. We work hard to find tenants who have demonstrated they will pay on time, take care of the property, and follow the terms of the lease.Transparency, Technology, and CommunicationWe make sure we&rsquo;re accessible, responsive, and transparent. We embrace technology, and use our property management software to document everything from rent payments to maintenance invoices. This helps us communicate better with owners and tenants, and it provides you with all of the information you need when you need it. You can check out the income and expenses associated with your property and talk to us about any questions you have. You should have access to all the same information that we do.These are just a few of the reasons you should consider working with us. Whether you have one rental property or an entire portfolio of them, we have the experience to deliver a successful investment outcome.Please contact us at Blue Frog Property Management, and we&rsquo;ll be happy to tell you more about how we can help you.", "image": "https://youtu.be/K66DjkXgHOA", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/why-work-with-blue-frog-for-green-bay-property-management"}, 868 869 {"title": "How to Decrease Rental Vacancies - 5 Tips to Rent your Green Bay Property Fast", "text": "Renting out your house quickly is a good way to increase what you earn and reduce what you spend on vacancies. Today, we&rsquo;re talking about some ways to minimize the vacancy time of your rental units.Find Renters for My House: Market QuicklyFirst, when a resident provides you with their notice of intent to vacate, get into the property as soon as you can, and assess the condition of the home. Take a look around and see if you feel it would present well to prospective tenants. Then, put together a listing and get it up on the internet. Advertise the home and open up some show times. Get something worked out with the current resident so they cooperate with your showings. We have found that if you schedule two show times a week, it works well for you and your tenant who still lives there.Find Renters for My House: Schedule MaintenanceIf your visit to the property shows you that it&rsquo;s not quite ready to be advertised and you want to wait until the current tenant vacates, get maintenance in there as soon as possible. If you can get the work done quickly, you&rsquo;ll be able to get it back on the market as soon as your tenant does move out, and it will be ready to be shown.Utilize Showing SoftwareWe recommend that you use a showing software that can do different things. With a good program, you&rsquo;ll be able to send text notifications and reminders as well as confirmations through email. It&rsquo;s also a great tool for leasing agents and compiles all of your scheduled showings into one area. Agents can access the information anyw
869here on a smartphone or a tablet. It works really well.Prepare to Show on WeekendsFinally, work some weekend show times into your schedule. You need to have at least one weekend show time for each vacant property. When you have a Saturday or a Sunday available, you&rsquo;ll capture a larger group of people. You&rsquo;ll limit yourself to a smaller tenant pool if you only show the property Monday through Friday.&nbsp;If you have any questions about how to find renters or anything pertaining to property management in the Green Bay area, please don&rsquo;t hesitate to contact us at Blue Frog Property Management.", "image": "https://img.youtube.com/vi/lQdQpNQrEFM/hqdefault.jpg", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/how-to-decrease-rental-vacancies-5-tips-to-rent-your-green-bay-property-fast"}, 870 871 {"title": "Should You Allow Pets In Your Rental?", "text": "Should You Allow Pets in Your Rental? This is a common question many landlords ask themselves at least once in their time of owning and renting their property. There is no right or wrong answer and it can be an incredibly personal decision for many reasons. As with anything else, it makes a lot of sense to consider some of the facts before you make a decision. There are some common pros and cons that are related to allowing pets into your rental property. By refusing pets, you are limiting your pool of potential residents by over half of the population. The 2017-2018 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association, describes this as 84.6 million of&nbsp;American households! The US Census reports that there&nbsp;are 124.587 million households in America, so roughly 68% of them own a pet.&nbsp;The statistics become even more staggering when you consider that 48% of these households contain a dog and 38% contain a cat. As you can see, by clearly defining a no-pets policy, you are drastically limiting the number of desirable renters you have to choose from. Another thing to consider, is that many people will still choose to have pets, even if you tell them not to.Unfortunately, this means that you then have the consequence of animals in your rental unit, without any of the benefits of having them there. At Blue Frog Property Management, we require an increase of $35 a month in rent and an extra security deposit equal to half of the original deposit. This results in a $420 rent revenue increase in a year. Increased resident retention and lower vacancy rates are two things talked about in Petfinder's Pet-Friendly Housing Study. In this study it was determined that tenants who lived in pet-friendly housing stayed on average 46 months instead of 18 months for those who do not live in pet-friendly housing. This statistic does not include people who kept pets kept against the wishes of the landlord, their average stay is closer to the 18 month average. The average vacancy rate for properties with a no-pets policy in place was determined to be about 14%, while those allowing pets had an average of 10% for their vacancy rates. It was also noted that landlords spent half the time marketing their property and received t
871wice as many applications for their vacant pet-friendly units. Ultimately the time it took to rent a unit that was pet-friendly was 19 days on average compared to 29 for their no-pets counterpart. It is easy to see that with the above information that there are benefits to allowing your residents to have pets. The most common reason why property owners are opposed to allowing pets&nbsp;is the damage that can be caused from them. I, personally, have experienced firsthand how detrimental an animal can be to a property. Cats can completely destroy screens and carpeting if they aren't declawed, and dogs have a natural need to chew that could lead to damage as well. The smell of cat or dog excrement&nbsp;in a carpet that is impossible to get out, without removing the carpet, sealing the floor, and replacing the entire carpet and padding is one that is hard to forget. However, this has not been the norm in my experience and there are exceptions to every possibility. The extra security deposit that Blue Frog expects from pet owners is an excellent safeguard to protect your property. Dogs barking and birds squawking throughout the day or night will irritate neighbors in close proximity, especially if it happens at odd hours of the day or night. Unfortunately this is not something you will know until the resident has moved in to the unit, and the neighbors begin to complain. There are options to rental owners though, if this were to happen. Liability is another con that needs to be considered when allowing animals. Blue Frog does not allow breeds of dogs that are known to be aggressive and we limit the size of the dog to be 30 lbs or less. This decreases the likelihood of an incident taking place that you could be liable for. All-in-all the decision to allow a pet is not something that should not be completely disregarded as an option for rental property owners.&nbsp;At the same time, Blue Frog completely understands if an owner decides that they just do not want to take the chances with having a recorded pet in the property or unit.A Side-Note About Emotional Support Animals and Service Animals Emotional Support Animals are&nbsp;&nbsp;(ESA's) are not considered pets and are protected by the Fair Housing Act. The Fair Housing Act also&nbsp;prevents us from denying the rental of a unit to someone because they have this type of animal, even if the owner has a no-pet policy in place. To deny them would be discriminatory, and landlords are required to make reasonable accommodations&nbsp;for anyone with a disability.&nbsp; This means that by law, Blue Frog is unable to charge pet rent or an extra security deposit for an animal that has been determined to be and ESA or Service Animal.We can, however, ask the resident to provide us with information from their doctor or therapist in regards to the animal status. We keep that information on file and easily accessible to both the resident and the owners through their portals. Resident's with ESA's or Service Animals are required to take care of your property and their animal to the same effect that anyone with a pet would, so Blue Frog makes sure the property is maintained inside and out by the resident. ", "image": "", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/should-you-allow-pets-in-your-rental"}, 872 873 {"title": "Blue Frog at the Fond du Lac Farmer's Market", "text": "Come and see the new Luxury apartments located at 131 Main St. Fond du Lac.&nbsp; Blue Frog was on site last week during the Fond du Lac Farmer&rsquo;s Market conducting open houses for these brand new apartments.&nbsp; During our first open houses we showed over ten people a variety of available units.&nbsp; If you are interested in seeing any of the available units stop by during the Farmer&rsquo;s Market or schedule a showing via our website at http://www.bluefrogpropertymanagement.com/schedule-a-showing.", "image": "", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/blue-frog-at-the-fond-du-lac-farmers-market"}, 874 875 {"title": "Blue Frog's New Inspection Software", "text": "Blue Frog Property management is happy to announce that we recently rolled out new property inspection software to supp
875ort our property inspection and rent ready checks. &nbsp;This software allows us to systematically check all aspects of a property to ensure that everything is completely rent ready. &nbsp;We are able to create professional reports including pictures that appropriately document a properties condition. &nbsp;The reports help us ensure we are providing top notch rentals to all of our tenants and makes the move out process quick and easy to determine any security deposit deductions.Blue Frog Property Management manages rental property in Green Bay, Appleton, Oshkosh, and Fond du Lac.", "image": "", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/blue-frogs-new-inspection-software"}, 876 877 {"title": "Blue Frog’s New Office – Coming Soon", "text": "Blue Frog property management is expanding our brick and mortar footprint to the Oshkosh area.&nbsp; We already have an office located in Green Bay as well as south Fond du Lac.&nbsp; The office in Oshkosh will be located at 1511 Oregon St.&nbsp; We will be doing a renovation on the property which should be complete around the end of July and officially opening around mid-August.&nbsp; We are excited about this addition to our brick and mortar footprint and look forward to continuing to expand our presence to better allow us to serve our customers.Blue Frog Property Management", "image": "", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/blue-frogs-new-office-coming-soon"}, 878 879 {"title": "Blue Frog Property Mgt is expanding to Green Bay!", "text": "Hello, We are proud to announce that Blue Frog Property Management is expanding our coverage to include Green Bay. &nbsp;This will now allow us to manage properties all the way from Green Bay to south of Fond du Lac. &nbsp;With the transition we will be adding another property manager and maintenance person to our team. &nbsp;We appreciate all of our Business Partners and look forward to working with you in the future. Sincerely, Blue Frog Property Managementhttp://www.bluefrogpm.com", "image": "", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/blue-frog-property-mgt-is-expanding-to-green-bay"}, 880 881 {"title": "Online Property Management Systems", "text": "Blue Frog utilizes online property management systems to help owners and tenants stay in the loop. &nbsp;Our owners and tenants both receive access to an online portal which allows them to perform several tasks. Through our portal tenants can:-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; View vacant properties-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Apply for a property-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Pay rent with a credit card or electronic check-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Request maintenance-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Run a variety of reports-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; View rental documentation-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Much moreThrough our portal owners can:-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; View rental documentation-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Access to a variety of reports-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Monitor maintenance work orders-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Full property accounting-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Much moreBlue Frog Property Management services the Appleton, Oshkosh, Neenah, Menasha, Fond du Lac, area in Wisconsin.", "image": "", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/online-property-management-systems"}, 882 883 {"title": "Is It Better To Rent Or To Sell?", "text": "Is It Better To Rent or Sell? A common question for many people is whether they are better off selling their property or renting it out.&nbsp; We firmly believe that one of the best paths to long-term wealth is to hold investment property.&nbsp; We would like to tell you why we feel it is better to rent then to
883sell: Short term vs. long-term wealth When you sell a property, you most likely have one large influx of cash depending on your equity position.&nbsp; Then what?&nbsp; Most people will spend the cash in their day-to-day life with no tangible improvement to their personal balance sheet.&nbsp; Over the long term for most people, this one time influx of cash is simply a blip on the radar.&nbsp; If instead you convert your property to rental use, you will have an asset and a cash flow forever.&nbsp; Once this property is paid off you will most likely generate more cash every few years then you would have in total if you sold it. As a rule of thumb &ndash; Sales are short term gains, rentals are forever! The below compares selling a property for $100,000 with $20,000 equity that would rent for $1,000 a month.&nbsp; Selling expenses are estimated to be 8%.&nbsp; We will assume 3% increases to rent per year, 3.5% annual appreciation, and 2% increase in expenses per year.&nbsp; Model also builds in approx. $5.5K a year in expenses to rent.&nbsp; Model assumes 25-year mortgage. Year Cumulative Sell $ Cumulative Rent $ (Over Expenses) 1 $18,400 $792 10 $18,400 $15,840 15 $18,400 $31,177 25 $18,400 $81,116 As the end of year 25 if you sold your property in year 1 you got a total of $18,400.&nbsp; At the end of year 25 if you rented, you generated $81,116 worth of positive cash flow and you now have an asset worth over $200K that is 100% paid for and should generate approx. $10K a year in positive cash flow.&nbsp; If we factored in the time value of money the rental scenario would look that much better. As you can see the results are not even close, which is why we firmly believe holding your property as a rental is a much better long term financial decision. Blue Frog Property Management is a full service property management company servicing Appleton, Oshkosh, Fond du Lac, Menasha, Neenah, and the entire surrounding Fox Valley area.", "image": "", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/is-it-better-to-rent-or-to-sell"}, 884 885 {"title": "Why We Love Real Estate", "text": "Well let us cut to the chase my friends.&nbsp; Why should you invest in real estate?&nbsp; There are dozens of investment vehicles that people use to accumulate wealth including: stocks, bonds, savings accounts, precious metals, etc.&nbsp; What makes real estate so special?&nbsp; There are dozens of reasons why real estate is the most powerful investment vehicle that exists.&nbsp; We will explore several of these reasons throughout the book but for now I want to focus on what I call the Big 3.1.&nbsp; Leverage &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Without a doubt the most powerful attribute investing in real estate brings to the table is the power to leverage your money by a wide margin.&nbsp; The primary reason that you are able to leverage real estate is the loan is backed by the real estate asset.&nbsp; Historically speaking real estate is a relatively stable asset that appreciates with time.&nbsp; I understand that the real estate market has been more volatile over the past few years but fully expect this to fall back in line with historical trends in the near future.&nbsp; The chart above details the power of leverage.&nbsp; With $10,000 and the right approach you can easily obtain control over a $200,000 real estate asset.&nbsp; Think this isn&rsquo;t possible?&nbsp; I assure you that it is.&nbsp; I have personally leveraged to 95% of my contribution on several occasions both with and without banks involvement.&nbsp; I plan to do this several more times (potentially several hundred) over the coming years.2.&nbsp; ReturnI hate to be the bearer of bad news by if you currently house a majority of your savings with the bank you are actually losing money.&nbsp; The average inflation rate for the US is approx. 3%.&nbsp; This means that if you aren&rsquo;t making at least 3% return on your money that your actual spending power is being depleted year after year.&nbsp; If your goal is to be financially independent (a very worthy goal) then you need to receive well above 3% to get there.&nbsp; The below chart details that difference in investment returns over time.&nbsp; The difference in total value of an investment that earns 5% per year vs. an investment that earns 20% per year over 25 years is a staggering $460,049.&nbsp; I can assure you that returns in excess of 20% in real estate are very possible.&nbsp; Obtaining these types of returns consistently over years will make you wealthy.&nbsp; The opportune word in the previous sentence is will.&nbsp; This is not my opinion.&nbsp; This is mathematical fact.3.&nbsp; Ability to obtain a high return&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dare I say that with the proper training your ability to obtain a return on investment higher then 20% is relatively easy.&nbsp; I am quite sure that certain people will scoff at the previous remark.&nbsp; Please do not misunderstand.&nbsp; I am not suggesting that anyone can go buy a real estate investment without the proper knowledge and without doing the proper work and come out with a gold mine.&nbsp; In fact, if you do this there is a good chance you will end up broke.&nbsp; What I am suggesting is that in real estate most of the variables that attribute to an overall return are not educated guesses or assumptions.&nbsp; They are either already known or can be determined with a very high degree of accuracy.&nbsp; For this reason, a skilled investor can expect to receive high returns on a consistent basis.&nbsp; By the end of this book we will develop your investing skills so that you to can enjoy these types of returns.4. Protects your most precious asset &ndash; Time &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There is one last important variable that draws me to real estate and that is the fact that you can manage a substantial real estate business while not consuming all of your free time.&nbsp; Every investment takes time to properly build.&nbsp; I have thought about opening several different businesses over the years and the one large negative always staring me in the face is the amount of time that it consumes.&nbsp; Many entrepreneurs work endless hours day after day, month after month, year after year.&nbsp; This was always a major deterrent for me.&nbsp; Once you reach a solid base with your properties, you can very easily outsource the property management and the maintenance of your properties.&nbsp;
885 These are the two items that not only take up most of your time but they are also the least enjoyable part of managing a property.&nbsp; I am not suggesting that you don&rsquo;t have to put any time into it.&nbsp; You are entrusting a property manager with millions of dollars in assets and only a fool would let them run wild unchecked and you know the old saying &ndash; A fool and his money are soon parted.&nbsp; I am however suggesting that it is possible to correctly manage millions of dollars worth of real estate on a very part time basis and to me this is what it is all about.", "image": "", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/why-we-love-real-estate"}, 886 887 {"title": "First 5 Rules of Real Estate", "text": "First 5 Rules ofInvestment Real Estate&nbsp;1.&nbsp; LOCATION - When Ifirst started learning about real estate, I was quickly taught about the firstthree rules of real estate investing.&nbsp;They are 1. Location 2. Location and 3. Location.&nbsp; For this article, we will only list locationas the #1 variable to consider but it just goes to show you that you cannotstress the importance of location enough.&nbsp;The same exact building could be a great investment in one area and aterrible one in another.&nbsp; Therefore,before you ever even think about investing in a certain property you need to doyour homework.&nbsp; Drive around theneighborhood to see what the area is like.&nbsp;Make sure that you do this during different times of the day so that youcan gain different perspectives of the property.&nbsp; List the reasons that a person would want tolive in this location.&nbsp; Is it close toschools, shopping, the highway, ect.?&nbsp; Ifyou cannot think of very many reasons that someone would want to live in thisarea MOVE ONto a different property.&nbsp;2.&nbsp; CASHFLOW &ndash; Buyinga property with a negative cash flow can be a strain on you financially foryears to come.&nbsp; Many properties havepositive cash flows out there so unless there are some compelling reasons to doso avoid any properties that do not have a positive cash flow.&nbsp; To figure out a properties cash flow youreally need to do your homework.&nbsp; Some ofthe numbers in your analysis you should be able to get almost exact; like waterbills, taxes, rents, ect.&nbsp; For others youwill have to use estimates to come up with a figure.&nbsp; Remember to error on the side of being overlyconservative.&nbsp; It is better to be happilysurprised then sadly disappointed.&nbsp; Ifyour property still cash flows when you are using very conservative numbersthen you are on the right track.&nbsp;3.&nbsp; RETURN ONINVESTMENT (ROI) &ndash; Every investment property out there is unique.&nbsp; To compare different properties you shouldcalculate return on investment so that you are able to compare them fairly.&nbsp; The higher the ROI on a property the betterof an investment it will be.&nbsp; ROI can becalculated in a couple of different fashion for investment real estate buttypically it is calculated as change in the value of your investment divided byyour original investment.&nbsp; Therefore, ifyou invest $1,000 into something and it is now worth $1,100 your return oninvestment is $100 / $1,000 = .1 or 10%.&nbsp;&nbsp;4.&nbsp; RENT TO VALUERATIO &ndash; Before you ever buy an investment property you should know exactly whatits rent to value ratio is.&nbsp; Rent tovalue ratio is calculated by dividing the total monthly rents by the price ofthe property.&nbsp; (If utilities are includedin rent, you may want to make an adjustment for this)&nbsp; It is an old rule of thumb that you shouldlook for properties that get at least 1% of the properties value in monthlyrent.&nbsp; Normally the bigger the buildingthe higher of a percentage you can get but there definitely are diamonds in therough as well.&nbsp;5.&nbsp; RENTAL HISTORY &ndash; Whenlooking at a potential investment always try to gauge the properties rental history.&nbsp; Talk to current tenants and ask them how longthey have been there for and if they have any plans on moving any timesoon.&nbsp; Talk to neighbors and see how longtenants normally stay before moving out.&nbsp;You want to find a property that keeps tenants for multiple yearsbecause you will have less vacancies and less stress from filling vacancies.&nbsp;", "image": "", "tags": "none", "url": "/blog/first-5-rules-of-real-estate"}, 888 889 ]}; 890</script>
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