Bank Busters Q&A (AI) 12/19/25
Key Questions to Ask Yourself & the Seller About the Structure & Terms: 1. Lease-Option vs. Lease-Purchase? (Lease-Option: Right to buy; Lease-Purchase: Obligation to buy). 2. Purchase Price: Fixed now or determined by appraisal later?. 3. Option Fee: How much, and will it count toward the purchase price?. 4. Rent Credits: How much of the monthly rent goes toward the down payment?. 5. Lease Length & Extension:How long, and can the period be extended?. LLC l 6. 7. Default: What happens if you miss a payment or can't buy? (You could lose everything). About Costs & Responsibilities: 1. Maintenance & Repairs:Who pays for routine upkeep and major fixes? (Often you in these deals). 2. Property Taxes & Insurance:Who is responsible for these carrying costs?. 3. Utilities: Which ones are your responsibility?. About the Purchase Process: 1. Credit & Financing: Can you qualify for a mortgage at the end? (Talk to a lender early). 2. Home Inspection: Do you need one, and is it recommended? (Yes, get one!). 3. Seller's Mortgage: Is the seller paying their existing mortgage? (If not, they could foreclose). Crucial Advice - Get Legal Help: Have a real estate attorney review the contract; these agreements are not standard and vary widely. - Understand Risks: You can lose your option fee and rent credits if the deal falls through, warns Redfin. - Check Local Laws:Regulations for lease options differ by state