As part of RHRC’s ongoing If Only I Knew: Tenant–Landlord Edition education series, we’re sharing short reflections from Milwaukee housing providers to highlight lessons learned, practical insights, and opportunities for better communication between landlords and tenants.
This series is designed to support learning on all sides—whether you’re a tenant, a longtime landlord, or someone new to property management.
Meet the Property Manager
Name: Jonny
Property Management Company: SDN Property Management
Serving Milwaukee Since: 2010
With more than a decade of experience managing properties in Milwaukee, Jonny has seen how day‑to‑day practices can shape tenant experiences and long‑term housing stability.
If Only I Knew…
What’s one thing you wish you knew before becoming a landlord/property manager?
“I wish I knew how much paperwork was involved.”
From leases and maintenance records to payment histories and compliance requirements, documentation plays a major role in housing management. Jonny’s reflection underscores how administrative work is a significant—and often underestimated—part of being a landlord or property manager.
Building Trust Between Landlords and Tenants
What helps landlords and tenants build more trust with each other?
“Clear communication from the start.”
Setting expectations early can make a big difference. Clear communication about leases, responsibilities, timelines, and concerns helps prevent misunderstandings and reduces conflict for everyone involved.
Advice for First‑Time Landlords and Property Managers
What advice would you give to someone just starting out?
“Start small and always document everything—leases, payments, communication.”
For new landlords, Jonny emphasizes the importance of organization and record‑keeping. Documentation protects both tenants and housing providers and can help resolve issues fairly when questions arise.
Why This Matters
The goal of the If Only I Knew series is to share real‑world lessons that support more stable, transparent, and respectful rental relationships. By learning from past experiences, tenants and landlords alike can better navigate housing responsibilities and expectations.
RHRC will continue sharing insights from across Milwaukee’s housing landscape as part of this educational series.
