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Rent to Buy

From Renting to Owning - Your Pathway to Homeownership Starts Here

What is Rent to Buy

Rent to Buy is a housing scheme that offers a pathway to homeownership for those who want to own a home but may not be able to do so immediately.

With Rent to Buy, you have the opportunity to rent a property at a reduced rate for a fixed period, while simultaneously saving money towards owning that property in the future.

You rent a property at a lower-than-market rate, typically for around 3-5 years. During this time, you have the chance to save for a deposit and improve your financial situation.

The goal is to transition from being a tenant to becoming a homeowner by purchasing the property you have been renting at the end of the rental period.

Is Rent to Buy Right for Me?

Affordability

Rent to Buy allows you to rent at a reduced rate while saving towards homeownership.

Flexibility

Rent to Buy allows you to live in a property while deciding whether it suits your needs and preferences before committing to purchase it.

Financial Stability

If you have a stable income, Rent to Buy provides an opportunity to improve your financial situation while living in your desired home.

Future Goals

Rent to Buy is a great option if you are committed to saving and pursuing home ownership.

How Does Rent to Buy Work?

Rent to Buy is an increasingly popular option for individuals aspiring to own a property in the UK. It offers a unique pathway to homeownership by allowing tenants to rent a property with the possibility of purchasing it in the future.

Homes are made available to rent with a shorthold tenancy at a reduced rate of 80% of local market rents. This reduced rent allows you to save for a cash deposit during the rental period.

The expectation (although not obligation) is that this shorthold period of paying less rent gives you the chance to save for a cash deposit so you can apply to buy the home later. After this period, you can choose to purchase the property or explore other housing options.

The lease period for Rent to Buy properties typically lasts from six months to 5 years, depending on the specific property.

Am I Eligible for Rent to Buy?

Income and Affordability

To be eligible for Rent to Buy, applicants need to demonstrate that they can meet the monthly rent payments and potentially afford the future purchase.

While there is no fixed income threshold, most landlords or sellers require an income of 2.5 to 3 times the monthly rent. 

Credit History

Rent to Buy schemes are generally more flexible than traditional financing options, taking into account a wider range of credit histories.

While a poor credit score might not disqualify applicants, it could affect the terms of the agreement, such as higher fees or an increased purchase price. 

Legal Residency

Applicants must have the legal right to reside in the UK. This typically includes UK citizens, individuals with indefinite leave to remain, and those with valid visas or residency permits.

First-Time Buyers

Rent to Buy schemes often prioritise first-time buyers, aiming to support those who have not previously owned a property. This focus provides an opportunity for individuals who may not have substantial savings or a large deposit to enter the property market.

Rent to Buy Questions

Eligibility criteria for Rent to Buy schemes can vary, but typically, anyone who meets the income and credit requirements, is a first-time buyer, and has the legal right to reside in the country can participate.

Yes, in Rent to Buy schemes, tenants are generally allowed to make an outright offer or explore a part rent part buy scheme at any time during the rental period if they are ready to purchase the property earlier.

In some Rent to Buy schemes, a portion of the rent paid during the rental period may be allocated as rent credit, which can be used towards the purchase price of the property. However, the specific terms and amount of rent credit can vary, so it’s important to review the agreement details.

If you decide not to buy the property at the end of the rental period, you can choose to move to another property or explore other housing options. However, any option fee or rent credits paid during the rental period are typically non-refundable.

Rent to Buy agreements typically require tenants to seek permission from the landlord or housing association before making any modifications or improvements to the property. It’s important to clarify the terms regarding customisation with the landlord before making any changes.