What it is not
Rent to own is not a guarantee that you will buy, and it is not a mortgage. Your actual price, term, rent, and purchase terms are in the written agreement for that home, not promised on a phone call or on this page.
For rent to own buyers
Want to buy, but need time to get there?
A rent to own buyer, also called a tenant-buyer, lives in the home, pays rent, and works toward purchasing it before the term ends. It can be a path to homeownership for people who need time to build credit, save, or qualify, while living in the home they plan to buy.
Inland Homes screens and approves tenant-buyers, places them in a home, and stays in the deal through the term. This is not a random rental. You are working toward buying that home.
How it works for buyers
Four steps, no surprises
- 1
Tell us what you need
Use the form below. Area, bedrooms, monthly budget, and timeline help us match you to a home that actually fits.
- 2
Get screened and approved
We screen and approve tenant-buyers before placement. The exact criteria and terms are set out in the written agreement for that home.
- 3
Move in and work toward buying
Live in the home, pay rent, and use the term to build credit, save, or qualify, as your situation requires.
- 4
Buy before the term ends
Purchase the home on the agreed terms before the term ends, and the homeowner is cashed out. That purchase is the exit the whole plan is built around.
Is this a good fit for you?
This may fit if you are in one of these situations
- You need time to qualify for a mortgage, and you want to live in the home while you get there.
- You need time to build credit or save, and renting a random place does not move you closer to buying.
- You found an area you want to stay in, and you want to lock in a home there while you prepare to buy it.
- You want a home, not just a rental, and you are ready to look after it like an owner would.
What we ask of you
Be honest about your budget and timeline, keep rent current, look after the home, and work toward the purchase during the term. If the numbers do not fit, we will tell you honestly.
What happens if you cannot buy in time?
That depends on the written agreement for that home, so ask about it before you sign anything. Do not sign a rent to own agreement, with us or anyone else, until you understand the end of term outcome.
Common questions
Questions rent to own buyers ask first
Do I need perfect credit?
No, needing time to build credit is one of the main reasons people look at rent to own. Screening still applies, and the exact criteria are set out for each home.
Do I need a large down payment?
That depends on the home and the written agreement. Tell us your budget in the form below, and we will be straight about whether a home fits it.
Is the rent higher than a normal rental?
It can be, because you are working toward a purchase, not just renting. The rent, term, and purchase price for a specific home are in its written agreement, so compare those numbers before you decide.
Who handles maintenance?
Under the S.T.A.Y. System, all payments and maintenance are covered while the agreement is in place, and the home is managed through the term. The exact maintenance terms for a home are in its written agreement.
Can I choose any home I want?
We match buyers to homes in the S.T.A.Y. System. Tell us the area and home you need in the form below, and we will tell you what is realistic.
Is this legal or financial advice?
No. This page explains rent to own in general terms. Have your own attorney or advisor review any agreement before you sign.
Get started
Tell us what home you are looking for
Your name, a way to reach you, and the area and budget you have in mind are required. Everything else is optional. Please do not include Social Security numbers, dates of birth, or bank account numbers.