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Being President of the AASEW, now RPA, and traveling around Southeast Wisconsin promoting the group, I am continuously asked by prospective members “Why should I join?” The RPA has saved our industry millions of dollars fighting unfair laws and ordinances. We have been at the forefront of issues ranging from lead paint to property recording fees. We are the only organization to litigate against the City of Milwaukee Rental Inspection Program, spending almost $100,000 in legal and lobbying fees. The reality is, there are a number of reasons why you should join the RPA. -Ron Hegwood, Past President |
1. Strength in Numbers The old adage, there is strength in numbers, definitely applies to landlords. Often times, the power of many is able to overcome circumstances that would not be feasible individually. The RPA greatly believes in this philosophy and the power we have when we join together. Our community consists of over 40,000 landlords in Southeast Wisconsin, alone we cannot fight the great strength of the local and state government, but together we can. The RPA has been advocating for landlord’s rights since its inception. As a group we are on the leading edge in protecting landlords from unjust laws and regulations. By joining the RPA , you are joining a team with the common goal of doing business in Southeast Wisconsin and protecting your rights to continue this goal. | 2. Networking Our organization contains members of a variety of ages and experience levels and each meeting you will have the chance to meet and converse with other landlords. Investors, young and old, can learn new ideas from one another and this opportunity may give you insights you have never thought of before. 3. Discounts The RPA is actively adding ways to leverage the power of our group purchasing power to lower our individual costs. Possibilities include a discount card we present to vendors or innovative ways to implement group buying purchases (see the idea presented by board member Tim Ballering). |
4. Education We are fortunate to have the premiere landlord tenant attorney in the state of Wisconsin on our Board of Directors. Tristan Pettit’s reputation for vigorously defending landlords is laudable and the respect he garners from his peers and commissioners is undeniable. Tristan is a landlord himself, and recognizes that the best way for us to protect ourselves is to educate ourselves. By attending meetings, you will also be aware of new regulations being passed, as well as what is going on in the community. Our monthly speakers offer members relevant information, education, and contacts. Most importantly, by attending meetings you will network with other landlords in the organization. Everyone has something to bring to the table and meetings can be a great chance to learn more about the industry and ways to improve your business. | 5. Mentorship Every successful landlord has had someone give them a guiding hand or good advice along the way. Our community has an interest in the success of others and will not hesitate to field questions from young landlords who are full of energy and very inquisitive about the nature of this business. You will have the opportunity to ask questions or learn how to handle certain situations from experienced landlords. On the flip side, young investors have many skills and insights with technology that older investors may benefit from learning. No matter the age the member, everyone has something to bring to the table and being a member of the RPA gives you complete access to all of these new ideas and all the tried and true ones as well. Our association is a place for those who have received to give back! |