These arrangements in the Cleveland, Ohio, housing market represent a contractual agreement where a tenant rents a property for a specified period, with an option to purchase it before the lease expires. A portion of the monthly rent paid during the lease term may be credited toward the eventual purchase price.
Such agreements can offer a pathway to homeownership for individuals who may not currently qualify for a traditional mortgage. This arrangement allows prospective buyers to improve their credit score, save for a down payment, and familiarize themselves with the property and neighborhood before committing to a purchase. Historically, these options have been utilized by individuals facing financial barriers to traditional home buying.