GO-HNI Rental Properties
Rental properties contribute significantly to the look and feel of our neighborhoods. Disinvestment in rental properties can cause nearby property values to similarly decline. GO-HNI aims to develop and/or acquire, rehab, and manage rental units in our target neighborhoods, creating a supply of high-quality housing units that are attractive and affordable for residents, while ensuring that minimum health, safety and physical standards are not only met, but exceeded.
Project success will be demonstrated in our ability to:
- Create high quality rentals to meet current market needs
- Provide equity protection for neighboring property values
- Set examples for other rental properties and landlords
- Provide staging ground for future home ownership
- Increase tenant longevity
Please contact us at rent@gohni.org for more information or to schedule an in-person visit. Click the following link for a Rental Application.
Our Properties:
502 & 502A Madison Street – IN DEVELPOMENT
Healthy Neighborhoods Madison St Site Plan
Greater Oshkosh Healthy Neighborhoods, Inc. (GO-HNI) and Signature Homes by Adashun Jones, together with project partners, are teaming up for a new affordable housing development in 2026. This development, on the corner of Madison St. and Merritt Ave. in Historic Fourth Ward Neighborhood, will include a duplex with two-bedroom rental units and a two-car detached garage, helping expand access to quality, affordable housing in the Oshkosh community.
Units will be offered at affordable rates aligned with HUD income guidelines, prioritizing households earning below 80 percent of the Area Median Income. Tenants will be referred through local transitional housing partners, including programs that support individuals and
families transitioning from homelessness, refugee resettlement, or domestic violence. By providing stable, long-term housing, this project aims to strengthen connections between residents and the surrounding neighborhood.
Future tenants will benefit from a centrally located property near the Oshkosh Public Library, GO-Transit, the Oshkosh Boys and Girls Club and Downtown Oshkosh YMCA, and the Oshkosh Farmers Market.
The City of Oshkosh Redevelopment Authority has approved the sale of the lot to GO-HNI for one dollar, supporting the transformation of an underutilized parcel into a productive and community focused housing development. This investment will add value to the neighborhood
while addressing a growing need for affordable housing.
GO-HNI is partnering with Signature Homes by Adashun Jones to construct the duplex. The project is funded in part through grants and contributions from the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority Foundation, J. J. Keller Foundation, and Signature Homes by
Adashun Jones.
This duplex project marks an expansion of GO-HNI’s work into the development and management of affordable housing and is expected to serve as a catalyst for future redevelopment of underutilized parcels throughout Oshkosh.
About Greater Oshkosh Healthy Neighborhoods, Inc:
Founded in 2016, GO-HNI is a nonprofit community development corporation dedicated to strengthening neighborhoods through resident engagement, reinvestment, and community pride. Through its partnership with the City of Oshkosh under the ONE Oshkosh initiative, GO-
HNI supports neighborhood revitalization and property improvement efforts across the city.
Since 2020, GO-HNI has helped facilitate more than $700,000 in property improvements through programs such as the Good Neighbor Grant Program. The organization partners with the City of Oshkosh and Habitat for Humanity on Rock the Block Oshkosh, supporting
established neighborhood associations each year.
About Signature Homes by Adashun Jones:
Signature Homes by Adashun Jones is a leading custom homebuilder serving the Fox Valley and surrounding communities. Known for craftsmanship, integrity, and a seamless client experience, Signature Homes guides homeowners through every stage—from lot selection and
design to construction and warranty care. With a focus on quality materials, energy-efficient building practices, and highly personalized plans, the team delivers homes that reflect each client’s vision, budget, and lifestyle. Backed by experienced project managers and a reputation
for on-time, on-budget builds, Signature Homes stands as a trusted partner for families looking to create a home that’s built to last.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
We understand that new development often brings questions. Our goal is to be transparent throughout the process, listen to neighborhood feedback, and create a high-quality development that contributes positively to the community for many years to come.
What is planned?
The project will construct a new duplex on a currently vacant lot. The development will include two quality two-bedroom rental homes and a detached two-car garage. The goal is to transform an underutilized property into attractive housing that complements the existing neighborhood.
What does “affordable housing” mean?
Affordable housing is housing where occupants spend no more than approximately 30% of their gross household income on housing costs, including rent and utilities. Affordable housing serves working individuals and families whose incomes may not allow them to afford market-rate housing.
Who will live here?
The homes are intended for income-qualified households who meet program eligibility requirements. Residents may include:
- Working individuals and families
- Seniors on fixed incomes
- Veterans
- Refugees
- Individuals employed in essential community jobs
- Households transitioning from temporary housing into permanent housing
All residents will be required to comply with the lease and community expectations just like any other tenant.
Who will NOT live here?
The safety and well-being of residents and the surrounding neighborhood are a top priority for the development and management of this property. All prospective tenants will be subject to a comprehensive screening process that includes criminal background checks, rental history verification, income and eligibility verification, and other standard tenant screening procedures consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
The property will not knowingly lease to individuals whose criminal history demonstrates a current threat to the health or safety of others or who are prohibited from occupancy under applicable law. Screening criteria will evaluate relevant criminal convictions, including offenses involving the manufacture or distribution of illegal drugs, violent criminal activity, and other conduct that poses a direct threat to persons or property. Individuals subject to lifetime registration requirements under state or federal sex offender laws will not be eligible for tenancy where permitted by law and consistent with program requirements.
Tenant screening policies will be applied consistently and fairly to all applicants in accordance with fair housing laws, with individualized consideration where appropriate and required. The objective of the screening process is to provide safe, stable housing while protecting the rights of applicants and maintaining a secure living environment for residents and neighboring property owners.
Will this be transitional housing?
No. These are permanent rental homes. While some residents may be referred through local community organizations, the property is not a shelter, halfway house, or treatment facility.
How are tenants selected?
Applicants must meet income eligibility requirements and complete the property’s screening process, which may include:
- Income verification
- Rental history
- Background screening (consistent with fair housing requirements)
- Ability to meet lease obligations
What will tenants pay for monthly rent?
Fair market rent rates set by the U.S. Dept. of H.U.D. for 2026 are currently $1149 per month for each 2-bedroom unit (updated annually – HOME_RentLimits_State_WI_2026.pdf). The development is intended to serve income-qualified households for whom housing costs are designed to remain affordable. Prospective tenants will be required to verify eligibility, including household income of 30%-80% of the average area income, prior to occupancy and updated as required by WHEDA program guidelines. Property management will ensure ongoing compliance with all applicable affordability requirements, fair housing laws, and tenant eligibility standards to preserve the long-term affordability and integrity of the development.
Who will own and manage the property?
The property will be professionally managed by the nonprofit developer or its designated property management team. The owner is responsible for maintenance, tenant communication, and ensuring the property remains a positive addition to the neighborhood.
Will GO-HNI generate any proceeds from this project?
Rent payments will be applied to GO-HNI’s mortgage and maintenance for the property. Any remaining proceeds will be applied to future housing projects or neighborhood to support (including but not limited to CB&E and Good Neighbor Grants).
Will the property be maintained?
Yes. The owner will be responsible for:
- Lawn care
- Snow removal
- Landscaping
- Building maintenance
- Routine inspections
- Prompt response to maintenance issues
Maintaining the property protects both the investment and the surrounding neighborhood.
Will affordable housing lower nearby property values?
Research has generally found that well-designed and professionally managed affordable housing does not negatively impact surrounding property values. Quality construction, good maintenance, and appropriate property management are key factors.
What will the building look like?
The duplex will be designed to fit the character of the neighborhood. Exterior materials, landscaping, and architectural features will be selected to complement nearby homes.
Will there be enough parking?
Yes. The project includes a detached two-car garage and additional off-street parking, helping minimize impacts on street parking.
Will traffic increase?
Because this is only a two-unit development, traffic impacts are expected to be minimal and similar to other duplexes in the neighborhood.
Is this a government housing project?
No. The development may receive public funding or financing to make construction affordable, but it is owned and professionally managed by a nonprofit organization. Residents will pay fair market rent and are expected to follow the terms of their lease.
Will there be security measures?
Yes. The property will include features such as:
- Exterior lighting
- Good visibility from the street
- Regular property maintenance
- Responsive management for tenant concerns
- Compliance with local safety and building codes
What happens if tenants violate the lease?
Like any rental property, lease violations may result in warnings, corrective action, or eviction if necessary. Property management is responsible for enforcing lease requirements.
Why build affordable housing in this neighborhood?
The community, like many across Wisconsin, faces a shortage of affordable rental housing. Developing small-scale housing on vacant lots:
- Revitalizes underused properties
- Expands housing choices
- Supports local employers by providing workforce housing
- Increases neighborhood investment
Why a duplex instead of a single-family home?
A duplex provides housing for two households while maintaining a residential scale that fits comfortably within the neighborhood. It makes efficient use of land and infrastructure while helping address local housing needs.
How will this benefit the neighborhood?
Potential benefits include:
- Redevelopment of a vacant lot
- New investment in the neighborhood
- Attractive landscaping and construction
- Additional customers for nearby businesses
- Greater neighborhood stability through quality housing
How can neighbors stay informed?
Residents are encouraged to:
- Attend neighborhood meetings
- Ask questions throughout the development process
- Welcome new neighbors
- Contact property management with any concerns after occupancy
Who can I contact with questions?
Liz Last, GO-HNI Executive Director lizlast@gohni.org or 920-230-2717
135 Church Avenue – CURRENTLY FULL
Our offices are located on the 1st floor of this beautiful home in the Middle Village Neighborhood Association at 135 Church Avenue. The property features two, second-story units that are each 450 square feet, and there is one unit on the third floor that is 675 square feet of living space and an additional 275 square feet of storage space. Each unit has its own kitchen, living room, bedroom, bathroom, and ample closet/storage space.
The smaller units rent for $1100/month and $1200/month and the larger unit rents for $1275/month. Rent INCLUDES heat, water, wifi, parking, and a shared laundry room. Electricity is billed separately. No smoking. No pets.
Link to Unit 3’s Online Tour (second floor)
