Rent Smart
Rent Smart
Gain the knowledge and skills essential for a successful renting experience
Establishing a positive rental history is much like having a positive credit report, and Rent Smart starts participants on the right path for success.
Before I would just do one walk thru of how the apartment look then just accept it. Rent Smart taught me to ask questions confidently and what things to check and look out for since this will be the place that we make our home.
– Rent Smart Participant
Class Topics
Over the course of six sessions, this course will cover each of the following topics:
How Much Will It Cost? And Can I Afford It?
This module provides guidance to participants on how to determine the total cost of a rental unit and compare unit costs. It also introduces participants to the process of calculating their monthly income and expenses.
Checking Out the Rental Property and the Landlord
This module introduces a tool that participants can use to determine what is most important to them in a place to live and a similar tool that can be used to compare apartments.
Application Process
This module includes a basic introduction to credit reports and how landlords use the information to screen applicants. This module also covers fair housing regulations.
Who’s Responsible for Maintenance, Repairs and Care?
This module stresses the rental team concept, tenant and landlord working together, looking at who is responsible for maintenance, repairs and care.
Communications
This module focuses on the value of communication and offers suggestions of how to create strong and helpful messages.
Rental Agreements-Moving In, Moving On
This module focuses on the legal aspects of renting and common problem areas: rental agreements, security deposits, notices and evictions
Upcoming Classes
May 2026
Monday and Fridays 1-2 pm
May 4, 8, 11, 15, 18, 22
Check in April 27 1-2 pm
June 2026
Tuesdays and Wednesdays 11 am – Noon
June 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24
Check in June 2 11 am – Noon
How Much Does Rent Smart Cost?
Rent Smart is free! And it is open to the public.
Is Rent Smart online?
Yes. Rent Smart is live, online instruction via Zoom; Zoom links will be sent a week prior to the check in date.
Who is Rent Smart for?
Rent Smart is designed to help those individuals who have little to no rental experience and those who have had difficulty obtaining rental housing. Participants may be first time renters, as they graduate from school, or homeowners, transitioning to renting, individuals with poor rental or credit history, or individual who have other issues that may cause potential landlords to perceive them as high-risk tenants.
Can I get a certificate of completion?
Yes. Participants must complete (attend with camera on, person visible and be in a stationary position, able to participate (no driving, etc.) so we can verify full participation) all 6 modules to earn the Rent Smart certificate.
Are interpreters available?
This event will be conducted in English. You may request an interpreter, materials in an alternative language and/or format, and/or other services to make this event more accessible. Make your request at least 25 days before the event. You can either contact us or make your request in the registration form.