The current real estate market makes lease purchase contracts more desirable for some buyers and sellers. Why are many prospective home buyers contemplating this option? Finding financing has become more difficult. Although, renting your home before buying, doesn\'t make sense to some buyers, the lease purchase option may prove to be a wise choice for many. To determine if this is your best option, you must first understand what it means to sign such an agreement. Here is a brief review to evaluate the rent-to-own home buying option. Rent-to-Own Builds Up Your Credit Rating One of the reasons why you may choose a rent-to-own home is to build up credit scores before attempting to apply for a home loan. You should always improve your credit rating before applying for a home mortgage loan. Lenders look closely at credit ratings when qualifying people for loans. Your rent payment is actually building up your credit score. At the same time, you can reduce your other debts, such as credit card debt, car loans and student loans. What is Involved in Lease Purchase Agreements? Renting before you buy will give you a feel for what goes with living in this particular house. This can be a invaluable time evaluating your role as a homeowner and getting to know the property. You\'ll have the opportunity to care for the home on a daily basis and what kind of repairs may be necessary. As you enter into a rent-to-own agreement (often referred to as a lease purchase option), you agree to move into the home. Expect the standard move-in expenses such as a security deposit. A rent-to-own option means that you have the right to purchase your home at a certain date for a previously agreed upon price. Most purchase-option homes also require an extra deposit (sort of a down payment) that is due at signing, which means that the owner can\'t sell the house during the term of the lease. You can think of this cost as a bit like a rental deposit. In most cases, an additional monthly payment can be made that is applied towards the purchase price of the home. The Responsibilities of Being a Lease Purchase Home Buyer Make certain that you are fully aware of all the options and terms of this contract. In the lease purchase agreement, you are compelled to purchase, it is not an option. You must pay your rent on time, or you may forfeit the right to purchase the home, plus lose the extra money that you have already paid during the lease. Many find that at the end of the lease, they have the home they may not have been able to purchase the conventional way. At the end of the contract may decide that this isn\'t the home for you. In any case, rent-to-own can work in your favor.