Rent-to-own Programs: Path to Home Ownership for Low-income Renters and Tool for Community Development

Rent-to-Own housing programs offer a promising possibility that leverages public and private funds and encourages nonprofit and market cooperation, to develop home ownership and wealth accumulation opportunities for low-income residents while providing tools and local control for the revitalization process in distressed communities. Their success in existing programs gives hope that there may be a replicable solution available that develops affordable housing for those who need it most, that gives low-income families a chance to gain ground, and that provides community development corporations a tool for neighborhood revitalization. This book evaluates four such programs across the U. S. and finds that local factors play a strong role in determining what programs are appropriate, that programs must consider feasibility along with constraints, that existing programs demonstrate best practices designed to enhance the quality of life of the residents, and that preparing for owner readiness is a critical key in addition to providing a physical home for a family.