Rent to own real estate can be a great choice in Grand Rapids. But it can be a little confusing at first. What is a rent to own property? What is the tenant-buyer responsible for, and how does it all work?
Fortunately, once you understand the basics, you can take advantage of this excellent option. You can live in your dream house as you prepare to get more traditional financing, and help build up your credit along the way.
Getting Started
First, how do you find rent to own real estate in Grand Rapids? There are a few options, and some are easier than others. First, check with a local Realtor. They will be able to run a quick search on properties on the MLS, and check if any are offering their homes for sale as a lease option. From there, you can set a showing, follow up, and begin the process.
If there aren’t any available that fit your criteria on the Multiple Listing service, you may have to do more leg work on your own. Craigslist can be an excellent resource, since many people sell their homes FSBO through the classfieds. Search for homes that offer ‘rent to own,’ ‘lease option,’ or ‘seller financing’ in their descriptions. These are good clues that the owner is offering flexible options.
In addition, check the For Sale By Owner sites. Many are searchable, and a lot of homes there have rent to own as an option.
If you are not using a realtor, I would recommend doing a title search before signing the paperwork. It costs a couple hundred dollars, but you can rest assured that the person you’re working with really owns the home and there are no surprises on the title.
The Documents
Typically, you will sign two different documents. A lease agreement, and an option to buy the house for a specified amount of money. These are separate agreements, and you should carefully review both of them (or have an attorney do so).
The lease agreement will spell out your monthly payment, length of the agreement, and more. It will be similar to other lease agreements, since you are not purchasing the house outright. Pay special attention to your responsibilities for the property. It is very common for tenant-buyers to handle maintenance and repairs in rent to own real estate, so be ready.
The second document will be an option to buy the property. Typically, this document will spell out the ultimate purchase price if you decide to buy, and other important terms and conditions. In many cases, there will also be an ‘Option Consideration’ or ‘Option Fee.’ This is a payment the tenant-buyer makes in order to ensure they have the right to buy the home later.
For example, the first document could spell out a $1300/month lease for a nice home. It would include all the details of the rental portion, including tenant rights and responsibilities. The second document, the option to buy, could declare that the tenant buyer is paying $10,000 for the right to buy the house for $160,000 within the next two years.
The Results
By entering into a rent to own real estate agreement, you are well on your way to owning that home! But remember, the house isn’t yours until you exercise your option to buy. So while you’re enjoying your dream house, remember a few things.
First, make all of your payments on time! This is very important as you work to get other financing for the home. Most rent to own real estate contracts are set up for between 1 and 3 years, and you want to be able to purchase the home at the end. If you miss a payment, or are late, you could put your option at risk.
Secondly, work to improve your credit. With better credit, you will have more financing options, and better interest rates. There is a lot you can do to improve your score, so get on it right away!
Finally, treat the house as your own. Touch up the paint if it gets nicked. Clean the carpets if your daughter spills cranberry juice. Clean out the gutters, and manage the landscaping. Remember, this is your home.
Finding rent to own real estate in Grand Rapids can be a great way to live in your favorite neighborhood while prepping for other financing. Take advantage of it!