Is Rent-to-Own Right for You? What You Need to Know Before You Commit

If you’re feeling priced out of the real estate market in Barrie, Innisfil, Oro-Medonte, or Orillia, you’re not alone. Between rising home prices and tighter lending rules, many would-be buyers are stuck on the sidelines—but they don’t have to be. One alternative path to homeownership that’s growing in popularity across Simcoe County is the Rent-to-Own (RTO) program.

But before you sign anything, here’s what you need to know.

What is Rent-to-Own?

Rent-to-Own allows you to rent a home today with the option to buy it later—typically in 1 to 3 years. During this time, a portion of your monthly rent is saved toward your future down payment. This gives you time to improve credit, increase savings, or establish stronger income history, especially helpful for:

• Newcomers to Canada

• Self-employed individuals

• Divorcees starting over

• Families recovering from financial hardship

• Survivors of domestic violence needing stability

At The Shannon Murree Group | Real Estate With Impact, we believe everyone deserves the chance to own their own space—especially those who’ve been left out of traditional home-buying opportunities.

Benefits of Rent-to-Own

✅ Time to Get Mortgage-Ready
Build credit or income stability while living in your future home.

✅ Lock in Today’s Price
Protect yourself from rising prices in a hot market like Simcoe County.

✅ Path to Ownership Without Immediate Pressure
No need to rush into a mortgage—your plan is built around your timeline.

✅ Live in the Home While You Save
No more throwing money away on rent that builds nothing.

✅ Empowerment Through Planning
You’ll have a step-by-step strategy, not just wishful thinking.

The Risks (Yes, There Are a Few)

🔍 Predatory Programs
Not all rent-to-own offers are created equal. Some are downright predatory. We’ve seen contracts with hidden fees, inflated purchase prices, or clauses that disqualify the tenant at the last moment.

You Need the Right Legal Advice
This isn’t a DIY contract situation. Legal review and professional real estate guidance are non-negotiable.

How We Can Help

At The Shannon Murree Group | Real Estate With Impact – RE/MAX Hallmark Chay, we:

• Vet every rent-to-own opportunity for fairness and transparency

• Connect you with licensed mortgage professionals, lawyers, and advisors who understand your needs

• Help you build a long-term wealth strategy, not just a temporary fix

• Provide support for clients with non-traditional circumstances, such as immigration, divorce, or past trauma

• Protect your interests from start to finish

Because this isn’t just about buying a house—it’s about building a life.

Ready to Explore Rent-to-Own in Simcoe County?

Let’s make a plan that works for you—without pressure, without judgement, and with the resources you need to succeed.

📞 Contact us today or explore your options with the Real Estate With Impact team
Your future home may be closer than you think.

The Shannon Murree Group | Real Estate With Impact – RE/MAX Hallmark Chay
Serving Barrie, Innisfil, Oro-Medonte, Orillia and all of Simcoe County