What Is This Strategy Called?
-
Common Terms:
-
"Subject-To" Financing (taking over payments without a new loan).
-
"Lease Option" or "Option-to-Purchase" (renting with future buyout rights).
-
"Contract for Deed" (seller financing with balloon payment).
-
We combining these with a trust agreement for added security.
Is this legal?
Due-on-Sale Clause: Most mortgages allow transfers if payments continue (Fannie Mae Guidelines).
Seller Default Concern:
We use a performance deed (reverts title back to you if we miss payments)
How It Works (Step-by-Step)
-
Contract Phase:
-
We sign a purchase agreement with you (the homeowner, often with a 5–10-year balloon clause).
-
Title is transferred to a land trust (We are responsible for the trust; your name isn’t public).
-
-
Payment Phase:
-
We make monthly payments to you, the seller (often higher than market rent).
-
We renovate and lease the property (our cash flow covers payments).
-
-
Exit Phase:
-
We may sell before the balloon payment is due and you collect early.
-
If we default, the property reverts to the seller per contract.
-
Why It Works:
-
Seller Benefits: Steady income + property upgrades + no realtors.
Fact Check:
-
These strategies (lease options, subject-to deals) have been used since the 1970s and are recognized in all 50 states (with proper legal setup).
-
The CFPB and Fannie Mae allow them, as long as the original mortgage keeps getting paid (source).
-
"Yes, this is 100% legal when structured correctly. We use a recorded contract and a performance deed (or land trust) to ensure:
-
You keep legal title until the final payment.
-
If we default, the property automatically reverts to you—no foreclosure needed.
- You are welcome to consults your own realtor/attorney.
-
-