Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about our rent-to-own program, eligibility, costs, and what to expect from start to finish.

🏠The Basics

Rent-to-own lets you move into your future home today while building your financial profile to purchase it. Every month you make two payments: your rent at fair market value, and a Monthly Option Consideration - an additional amount that accumulates toward your future down payment. At the end of your term, your initial deposit and all Monthly Option Consideration payments are credited toward your purchase at the price agreed at the start.

No. When you rent, 100% of your payment goes to a landlord with no equity building. In our program, you make two monthly payments - rent and a Monthly Option Consideration. Your Monthly Option Consideration accumulates toward your future down payment, your initial deposit is credited to your purchase, and your purchase price is locked in from day one.

Our programs typically run 2 to 4 years, depending on how much time you need to become mortgage-ready. Extensions may be available in some cases.

Yes! We work with you and a real estate agent to find a home in your target area within your budget - just like a regular home purchase. You choose the home you want to eventually own.

We are based in Spruce Grove and serve families throughout Alberta - including Edmonton, St. Albert, Leduc, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain, Red Deer, and Calgary area. Contact us to confirm your location.

Eligibility

Yes. A low credit score is one of the most common reasons people come to us. Helping you improve your credit is a core part of what we do - we create a personalized plan from day one.

In many cases, yes. It depends on your current income stability and ability to make the initial deposit. We assess your situation honestly during your consultation.

Absolutely. Many of our clients are self-employed. We understand how self-employment works and help you structure your finances so you qualify for a mortgage at the end of the program.

Yes! If you have stable employment and the initial deposit, we can help you build a credit history and work toward homeownership - even without a long Canadian credit track record.

Life transitions like divorce are situations we help with regularly. Depending on your income and financial picture, you may qualify. We approach these situations with sensitivity and care.

💰Costs & Payments

You'll need an initial option consideration of 4–5% of the home's purchase price. This is not a fee - it is fully credited toward your final purchase as equity.

Every month you make two separate payments: your rent at fair market value for the home, and a Monthly Option Consideration - an additional amount on top of rent that accumulates toward your down payment throughout the term.

Yes. Your purchase price is agreed upon and locked in at the start of your program - protecting you from real estate price increases during your term.

Absolutely not. We walk through all costs with you before you sign anything. Transparency is one of our core values - no surprises, ever.

📈Credit & Finances

We build a personalized plan based on your credit report - identifying items to address including paying down balances, correcting errors, building positive history, and managing utilization. We check in regularly throughout your term.

Most Canadian lenders require a minimum score of 620–680 for a conventional mortgage. We set goals with you at the start and track progress to ensure you're on target throughout the term.

🔄The Process

Fill out our questionnaire on the Contact page or call us directly. We'll schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to learn about your situation and determine if you're a good fit.

After your initial consultation we typically review your application within a few business days. Once approved and a home is selected, agreements can be structured within 2–3 weeks.

🏡Final Purchase

You exercise your option to purchase the home at the agreed price. We connect you with a mortgage broker, your Option Considerations and option deposit go toward your down payment, and you complete a standard home purchase.

We work hard to ensure you are ready. In cases where unforeseen circumstances arise, we discuss options including potential term extensions. We are invested in your success from day one.

The option to purchase is exactly that - an option. You are not legally obligated to buy. However, if you choose not to exercise your option, you would forfeit your option consideration and accumulated Option Considerations.

We're Here to Help

Can't find the answer you're looking for? Reach out and Bernhard or Miranda will get back to you within one business day.