So, you’ve got a property you want to sell. Maybe you’re not in a rush to sell. Maybe you’re not interested in being a full-time landlord. Or perhaps you're tired of the rental revolving door...One thing is for sure: watching your property sit vacant month after month is like watching your money slowly melt away.

So, you’ve got a property on your hands you want to sell. Maybe you’re not in a rush to sell. Maybe you’re not interested in being a full-time landlord. Or perhaps you're tired of the rental revolving door...if so, check out our Rental Revolving Door Blog. Whatever your scenario, one thing is for sure: watching your property sit vacant month after month is like watching your money slowly melt away.

Let’s talk about a powerful alternative that thousands of savvy property owners are turning to: Rent-to-Own.

What if your next tenant wasn’t just renting — they were also planning to buy?

Let’s break it down.

💸 The Cost of Doing Nothing (aka: Keeping It Vacant)

Vacant properties may seem “peacefully quiet,” but behind the scenes, they’re expensive. Here’s what a typical year looks like for a vacant $250,000 property (these are conservative, ball park figures):

• $3,000 in property taxes

• $1,500 in insurance

• $3,600 in utilities

• $1,200 in landscaping/lawn care

• $2,000 in basic upkeep and maintenance

• $30,000 in lost rental income potential

• Total Loss: $41,300/year

That’s $3,441 per month—and no one’s even living there.

To find out what "doing nothing" costs you, simply substitute your actual costs and divide by 12...and don't fall off your chair!

🏠 The Rent-to-Own Reality

Now picture this instead:

You find a tenant who wants to buy your property. They move in, sign a rent-to-own agreement, and take care of the place like it’s already theirs (because that's what you all agreed to!). They’re responsible for:

• Monthly rent: $2,500 in your pocket

• Utilities: Covered by them

• Landscaping: Covered by them

• Minor maintenance and upkeep: Also covered by them

Even after property taxes and insurance, you’re left with a net income of $25,500 per year.

That’s a $66,800 turnaround from the vacant property scenario.

🏘 Why Rent-to-Own Just Makes Sense

Here’s what you gain with a rent-to-own tenant:

✅ Steady rental income while prepping to sell
✅ A tenant who’s invested in the property’s condition
✅ Fewer headaches — no constant repairs, calls, or bills
✅ No need to relist or remarket again and again
✅ A built-in buyer who’s already emotionally (and financially) invested

🤔 But What About the Risks?

Sure, every deal has some hurdles to jump over. Here's a quick glance at both sides:

Pros

• Earn income while waiting for a sale

• Reduce vacancy costs

• Tenant handles upkeep

• Attract motivated, long-term tenants

Cons

• The tenant may not ultimately buy

• Requires clear contracts and screening

• Slightly longer sales cycle

• May need negotiation if inspection reveals issues or appraisal isn't what was expected

But here’s the thing: with the right platform (hi, we’re Renterlyst! 👋), these “cons” are completely manageable. We help you screen qualified buyers, supply templates for you to create strong agreements, and streamline the whole process — from first inquiry to final closing.

🙌 Bottom Line

Rent-to-own gives landlords like you the best of both worlds: income now, a sale later, and peace of mind in the meantime. Don’t let your property sit and drain your wallet.

Instead…

👉 Turn your house into a high-performing asset.
👉 Get a great tenant who’s also your future buyer.
👉 List your home on Rentaly today — it’s free to start!

Ready to give your property a purpose? Create your listing now → www.renterlyst.com

Let your home work for you — not the other way around.