At Renterlyst, we work hard to create a trustworthy, secure, and streamlined experience for all users. To preserve the value of our platform and maintain fairness for all, we have a strict Off-Platform Policy. This policy defines what qualifies as an off-platform transaction, outlines preventative measures, establishes exceptions, and details the consequences of violations.

Renterlyst Off-Platform Policy

Last Updated: 6/13/25

At Renterlyst, we work hard to create a trustworthy, secure, and streamlined experience for all users—including tenant-buyers, landlord-sellers, and agents. To preserve the value of our platform and maintain fairness for all, we have a strict Off-Platform Policy. This policy defines what qualifies as an off-platform transaction, outlines preventative measures, establishes exceptions, and details the consequences of violations.

1. What Constitutes an Off-Platform Transaction

A transaction is considered off-platform when a user attempts to bypass Renterlyst by completing any of the following actions outside the platform:

• Completing a lease, option agreement, or sale initiated through Renterlyst, but finalized privately.

• Communicating privately to finalize terms, exchange money, or complete steps that should occur on the platform (e.g., payments, agreements).

• Reaching out to leads sourced via Renterlyst and directing them to continue the transaction elsewhere (email, phone, another website, etc.).

• Receiving or issuing payment related to a rent-to-own home that originated from Renterlyst outside of Renterlyst's designated systems (e.g., Venmo, Zelle, wire transfers, cash).

• Using Renterlyst tools (referrals, listings, applications) to match with users but complete the transaction privately.

If the contact between parties originated on Renterlyst, it is considered a Renterlyst transaction.

2. What Renterlyst Does to Prevent Off-Platform Transactions

To protect the platform and its users, Renterlyst:

• Tracks referral codes, application submissions, listing views, and internal messaging to identify transaction origins.

• Requires signed platform agreements and digital signatures for applications, lease-options, and closings to ensure on-platform compliance.

• Provides an in-platform communication tool and secure payment processing for rent, option fees, and other fees.

• Issues regular reminders and education to users about the importance and benefits of transacting on-platform.

Users are encouraged to report any attempts to take a transaction off-platform. We maintain confidentiality for whistleblowers.

3. What It Means That a Transaction "Belongs" to Renterlyst

A transaction belongs to Renterlyst when it has originated from or passed through one or more of the following:

• A user account or profile on Renterlyst (landlord, buyer, or agent).

• A listing, application, or message thread within the platform.

• A referral link or agent code provided through Renterlyst.

• A screening, verification, or payment processed by Renterlyst.

• A property or user match facilitated by the platform’s technology or outreach.

In these cases, the transaction is considered part of the Renterlyst ecosystem and must be completed on-platform to maintain platform integrity.

4. Exceptions: When an Off-Platform Transaction May Be Permitted

We understand that there may be unique cases where some steps must occur off-platform. Renterlyst may approve an exception if:

• A property is not eligible for rent-to-own terms and must follow different legal procedures.

• A government agency, non-profit, or municipality requires an alternative payment method or legal format.

• An existing relationship between tenant and landlord is proven to pre-date Renterlyst’s involvement.

• All parties formally request an off-platform transition in writing, and Renterlyst provides written approval.

All exceptions must be reviewed and granted by Renterlyst in writing before proceeding. Otherwise, the transaction will be considered off-platform and subject to penalty.

5. Consequences of Off-Platform Transactions

Users who attempt to take a Renterlyst-originated transaction off-platform without written approval are in breach of our Terms of Service. Penalties include:

• A violation fee equal to up to 3 months’ rent of the property in question.

• Suspension or permanent deactivation of user accounts (tenant-buyers, landlords, or agents).

• Forfeiture of any earned rent credits, bonuses, or access to Renterlyst support and closing tools.

• Ineligibility to participate in future Renterlyst listings, programs, or features.

We reserve the right to pursue further legal action or recover damages as necessary.

We’re Here to Help

If you’re unsure whether something qualifies as an off-platform transaction or need help resolving a situation, reach out to us at support@renterlyst.com. We're here to help protect the integrity of your experience while keeping the system fair for everyone.