When thinking about renting to owning a home in Houston, Texas, it’s important to check a few key things before deciding. Make sure to get the house appraised, have a thorough inspection, check if property taxes are up to date, and look for any existing debts on the property.
Well, you’re in the right place!
Here are some key factors to consider when renting to owning a home in Houston, Texas:
Those Things To Look For When Renting To Own A Home In Houston Texas
1. Find The House You Want To Live In Long-Term… Not Just Rent
Why Rent When You Can Own in Houston? but first of all, you need to carefully review the terms of the rent-to-own contract. A lot of people who are deciding whether they should just rent or “rent to own” look at the whole rent-to-own / lease option process in the wrong way. Don’t look at it like you’re looking for a house to rent for a little bit. Of course, you should find a house that is one you’d love to live in for a longer period (no less than 5 years).
Why?
Because with rental houses, you know it’s a temporary thing… so you’ll settle for a house that is less than ideal.
But since you’re looking to get a house to live in for years and years with a rent to own… it should be one that you can see your family in for years.
Yes, you’re renting a “rent to own” house… but you should choose a house you’d be glad to live in for years just in case you do exercise the purchase option at the end of the lease term.
To live in the long term you need to evaluate the house’s location. Is it conveniently situated near your workplace, school, or other essential destinations? Additionally, assess whether it is in a secure and safe neighborhood.
2. Terms That Fit Your Goals And Needs as A Houston Home Seeker
Not all rent-to-own houses in Houston have the same contract that goes with them. So make sure to find out the terms of the rental agreement and the terms of the purchase option as well. Usually, the monthly rent tends to be a bit higher with a rent-to-own agreement vs. a normal rental agreement… because you’re paying a premium for the ability to potentially purchase that house at a pre-determined price in the future. There’s a lot of value in that.
But with rent-to-own agreements, you should also have some flexibility that protects you. Make sure there are no fees for not exercising the purchase option at the end of the agreement.
Also, clarify with the owner of the house who will pay for things during the rental term like…
- Maintenance
- Lawn care
- Insurance
- Repairs
- Upgrades inside the house (new appliances, paint, etc.)
Get it all in writing who’s in charge of these kinds of things during the rental term?
3. The Value Of The Home – Is the Value Going Up?
One of the big benefits of a Houston rent-to-own program is the ability to lock in a home at a set price well in advance of you having to purchase it.
Establish your budget and adhere to it. The general advice from financial experts is to allocate no more than 30% of your overall net income towards housing expenses.
With a rent-to-own house contract, you agree on a monthly rental rate… a term of that rental (usually 12-24 months)… and a purchase price at a future date.
Because of this the purchase price usually doesn’t come at a discount for you… but, if you buy in the right Houston Texas neighborhood (one that is increasing in value)… you could be earning instant equity if you decide to purchase the home at the end of your rental term.
Eventually, capture images of every corner of the house or apartment before finalizing the lease. This step is crucial for ensuring the return of your security deposit when the lease concludes.
See Our Current Houston Rent
To Own Homes Below!
If you still have questions about the rent-to-own process just call us anytime at (832) 210-3088.
And if you want to be put on our local Houston Rent To Own Home List click the link below to see what’s available.