Frequently Asked Questions About Rent to Own Homes

Because this is a unique offering, we’re sure you have many questions, and that’s ok because we have the answers. Don’t see your question asked here? Send us a message, and we’ll be sure to answer it.

BASICS

Rent-to-Own is a simple 4-step path to homeownership for Ontarians who can’t qualify for a conventional mortgage today. JAAG secures your home now while you build credit and savings over the agreed upon term at which time you purchase it at the predetermined purchase price.

The 4 Steps:

Step 1: Pre-Qualify

  • Minimum income: $100,000+
  • Minimum deposit: 3%
  • Approval in 3-5 business days

Step 2: Choose Your Home

  • Any property on the open market
  • Within your approved purchase price
  • JAAG pays all lawyer fees and closing costs

Step 3: Live & Build Credit

  • Fixed monthly payment (covers mortgage, taxes, insurance + down payment credit)
  • Included credit team support and education throughout the term
  • You maintain the property as the future owner

Step 4: Buy Your Home

  • Obtain your own mortgage
  • Purchase at your predetermined purchase price
  • Your credits and deposit applied to down payment
  • Transfer title into your name

Why JAAG is Different

  • Fixed Price: Your purchase price is predetermined—no market surprises
  • No Separate Credit Cost: Credit team is included (competitors charge $1,500-$3,000+)
  • JAAG Covers Closing Costs: We pay all lawyer fees and initial costs when purchasing the house
  • You Choose Your Lender: Pick your own mortgage provider at the end

Reality Check

Active participation required: Make payments on time, work with the Credit Team, maintain the property. Your success depends on your commitment.

JAAG’s rent-to-own program secures your home and purchase price today while providing free credit support—you build equity and credit simultaneously for the entire term and then buy at a predetermined price.

The Key Benefits

Your Home is Protected

  • Predetermined purchase price—no market increases
  • Owner cannot sell to anyone else (Purchase Option Agreement protects you)
  • Early buy-out option if you qualify sooner
  • Monthly Savings: You are able to build equity in the house without officially owning it
  • Security in knowing your exact monthly costs for the entire term and fear of having to move in the Landlord sells, wants to move in or complete renovations

Your Choice Matters

  • Choose any home on the open market in Ontario
  • Within your approved purchase price range
  • JAAG has no inventory—complete freedom of looking for your home

Comprehensive Support Included

  • Dedicated Credit Team at no extra cost (competitors charge $1,500-$3,000+)
  • Budgeting help and financial coaching throughout
  • No hidden fees—only your all-in monthly payment
  • JAAG pays all lawyer fees and closing costs when purchasing the house

We Win When You Win

  • JAAG holds equity in the program
  • We only succeed when you succeed

Quick Comparison

Benefit JAAG Others
Credit Support Included Often separate (extra cost)
Program Alignment We succeed only if you succeed No vested interest
Closing Costs JAAG pays Client pays
Flexibility Early buyout option Often locked in

Reality Check

Your success depends on active participation: make payments on time, work with the Credit Team, improve your credit. JAAG provides the team and structure—you provide the commitment.

Clients choose JAAG because they cannot qualify for a conventional mortgage today—due to low credit scores, self-employment income, recent divorce, being new to Canada, or limited work history.

How It Works: Consolidated Monthly Payment

You make a single monthly payment covering:

  • Mortgage payment
  • Property taxes
  • Insurance
  • Monthly credits toward your down payment

These credits accumulate throughout your program, building your down payment savings.

Your Numbers Are Predetermined From Day One

Your purchase price is predetermined and will never change. Your monthly payment is locked in and will never increase. You know all costs upfront—protecting you from market fluctuations.

Flexible Purchase Timeline

Homeownership is the goal. Once you qualify for financing, you can buy at any point as JAAG provides predetermined purchase prices for every year within your term. If you can own the home earlier, this is best for everyone and JAAG will not hold you to a locked in term. Also your predetermined purchase price is lower for buying out earlier than the end of the term.

We’ve even decreased buyout prices for earlier purchases—you benefit from your credit and savings improvements.

Dedicated Credit Team Support

Unlike traditional lenders, JAAG provides continuous credit team support throughout your program. They help repair your credit, assist with budgeting, and prepare you for mortgage qualification. About 3 months before your program ends, they connect you with lenders.

The Path to Traditional Mortgage Ownership

JAAG’s goal is simple: get you mortgage-ready. By the end of your program, you’ll have improved credit, saved a down payment, and be ready to qualify for a traditional mortgage. You can then choose any mortgage broker or lender you prefer.

Why This Matters

Without JAAG, you’d wait to qualify while renting elsewhere, building no equity. With JAAG, you move into your future home now, build equity through monthly credits, and predetermine your purchase price against market appreciation.

QUALIFICATION

Yes. You can pre-qualify for rent-to-own if you meet two minimum financial requirements. Our services are designed for people who cannot qualify for a conventional bank mortgage today.

Minimum Requirements

Requirement Minimum
Combined Household Income $100,000+ annually
Initial Deposit 3% of approved purchase price

Example: On a $500K home = $15,000 deposit

Your 3% deposit serves as the offer deposit when JAAG purchases the home. When you are mortgage-ready, this same deposit is credited toward your down payment at closing.

Who This Program Helps

Rent-to-own works best if you have:

  • Low credit score (not yet mortgage-ready)
  • Insufficient down payment saved
  • Self-employment income (underreported on taxes)
  • Other barriers (new to Canada, recent divorce, young professional)

Next Step

If you meet these requirements, submit your full application. Our Approval Team reviews your file in 3-5 business days and determines your approved purchase price and if JAAG is able to assist you.

Yes. Even with bad credit, you can qualify for JAAG’s Rent-to-Home services if you meet two requirements: household income over $100,000 and a minimum 3% deposit.

How it works

Your Included Credit Team

JAAG includes a professional credit team at no extra cost—most competitors charge $1,500-$3,000+. This team:

  • Analyzes your credit file and identifies problems
  • Provides budgeting help and financial coaching
  • Supports you throughout your entire program
  • Prepares you for mortgage qualification

What Makes JAAG Different

Feature JAAG Other Providers
Credit Team Cost Included $1,500-$3,000+ extra
Accountability Built-in, regular follow-up Often sporadic or none
Timeline Entire term Limited support
Alignment Our success = your success Their profit ≠ your success

Reality check

You must actively participate. The credit team provides strategy and coaching, but you implement the recommendations. Progress depends on your commitment to following their plan.

Need more time?

If credit repair takes longer than expected, the Rent-to-Own term can be extended. You don’t rush into a mortgage you’re not ready for.

Bottom line

Bad credit isn’t a barrier at JAAG—it’s what we’re built to solve. You get professional credit coaching, accountability, and time to improve your credit while building equity in your home.

No. Even if you’ve been through Bankruptcy or Consumer Proposal, you can still qualify for the JAAG Rent to Home Solution. We understand that people have made mistakes in the past. JAAG has a dedicated Credit Team committed to improving your credit and helping you achieve homeownership.

How It Works with Your Credit History

Your Starting Point: Past financial challenges—like bankruptcy or consumer proposal—don’t disqualify you from JAAG’s services. What matters is your commitment to moving forward.

JAAG’s Approach:

  • Credit Analysis: Our Credit Team will set up a detailed credit analysis at the beginning of your program. This outlines the specific steps you need to take to achieve success.
  • Rebuilding Path: Over your Rent-to-Own term, the team works with you to repair your credit and demonstrate financial responsibility.
  • Continuous Support: You have dedicated support throughout the entire program to ensure you stay on track and meet your mortgage readiness goals.

Why This Works

Bankruptcy and Consumer Proposal can be successfully recovered from—with time, structured support, and consistent effort. JAAG’s services provides all three. Lenders will look at your recovery trajectory and willingness to rebuild. By the end of your term, you’ll have demonstrated:

  • Years of stable payments
  • Improved credit score
  • Sound financial management
  • Commitment to homeownership

Timeline for Recovery

  • Bankruptcy: Most people can improve significantly within 3-5 years if they follow a structured plan
  • Consumer Proposal: Credit improvement typically happens faster—often within 2-3 years
  • JAAG’s 3-Year Term: Provides the time needed to demonstrate recovery and build mortgage readiness

Reality Check: You Must Participate

While the Credit Team is there to guide you, your success depends on your commitment. You must:

  • Make all monthly payments on time
  • Follow the Credit Team’s recommendations
  • Build better financial habits
  • Avoid new credit problems or defaults

The program gives you the structure and support—your effort makes it work.

Yes. JAAG can work with self-employed clients to help them qualify for a mortgage at the end of the Rent to Home term, even if they don’t qualify for a traditional bank mortgage right now. We understand that self-employed individuals often have difficulty qualifying because they may not be able to claim enough income on their tax returns and the banks find self employment riskier than conventional employment.

How JAAG Helps Self-Employed Clients

JAAG’s Rent to Home services are designed to help you prepare for a mortgage over a 3- to 4-year term.

  • Credit and Financial Team: JAAG provides a full Credit Team at no extra cost. This team works with you to improve your credit score, assist with budgeting, and provide money coaching.
  • Income Qualification Preparation: A key goal for self-employed clients is ensuring your income is sufficient to qualify for a mortgage by the end of the term. The Credit Team works with you on this.
  • Predetermined Purchase Price: The final purchase price of the home is predetermined before you even start the program. This means you know the exact financing needed, and JAAG will not approve you for a price we don’t think you can qualify for.

This support is a major benefit compared to other Rent-To-Own providers, which often require you to pay a separate third-party credit repair company.

Your Pre-Qualification Requirements

Even with our support, you must meet:

  • Minimum combined household income: $100,000+
  • Minimum deposit: 3% of approved home purchase price

JAAG vs. Other Rent-To-Own Programs

Feature JAAG Other Providers
Credit Repair Team Included in program Often requires separate paid company
Investor Model Has equity interest; does not wholesale clients to investors Many wholesale clients to investors, which can lead to higher failure rate
Program Flexibility Offers early buyout and extension options Often not provided
Purchase Price Predetermined at start of program Less transparency/flexibility

The ultimate goal is your homeownership. We only succeed if you do.

Combined Annual Household Income: $100,000+

Initial Deposit: 3%+ of approved home purchase price

Example:

  • Home value: $500,000
  • Required deposit: $15,000 (3%)

Your 3% deposit serves as the offer deposit when JAAG purchases the home. When you are mortgage-ready, this same deposit is credited toward your down payment at closing.

These are the basic financial requirements to qualify. Everything else—credit improvement, down payment building, and mortgage preparation—happens with your included Credit Team throughout the program.

CREDIT & MONEY

Rent-to-own builds your credit through an effective process of building or re-building credit history with consistent on-time payments, debt reduction, and professional credit coaching—all while you live in your home.

How JAAG’s Credit Team Helps

Your included Credit Team works with you from day one:

  • Credit Analysis: Thorough review of your credit file and builds a specific roadmap for improvement
  • Ongoing Support: Budget help, money coaching, credit errors repair throughout program
  • Accountability: Regular follow-up (unlike competitors who charge $1,500-$3,000+ with no accountability)
  • Mortgage Prep: Three months before program end, they connect you with lenders

Why 3 Years Works

The 3-year program term gives you time to:

  • Repair credit errors and negative marks
  • Pay down existing debts
  • Build a history of on-time monthly payments
  • Achieve mortgage-ready credit

Reality Check

Success requires your active participation. You must follow the Credit Team’s guidance on budgeting, debt repayment, and financial habits. JAAG provides the structure and support—you provide the commitment.

A credit score is a number between typically 400 and 900 that lenders use to assess how reliably you are at holding credit, utilizing credit and pay debts. The higher your score, the better your mortgage prospects and better interest rate you may receive.

How Credit Scores Work

Your score is based on:

Factor Weight What It Means
Payment History ~35%* Do you pay bills on time?
Credit Utilization ~30%* How much of your available credit are you using?
Credit History Length ~15%* How long have you managed credit?
Credit Mix ~10%* Do you have different types of credit (cards, loans)?
New Inquiries ~10%* Have you recently applied for new credit?

Credit Score Ranges

  • Below 600: Poor (difficult to qualify for mortgage)
  • 600-669: Fair (possible but limited options)
  • 670-739: Good (standard mortgage qualification)
  • 740+: Excellent (best rates and terms)

Why It Matters for Rent-to-Own

You don’t need a high credit score to start rent-to-own—but you do need to improve it during your program term to qualify for a mortgage at the end. This is exactly what JAAG’s Credit Team helps you do.

*This is general credit education; consult a credit professional for personalized advice.

Your consolidated monthly payment covers everything: mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and a monthly credit toward your down payment. No extra fees.

What’s in your payment

Your single monthly payment includes:

  • Mortgage — Based on approved purchase price, fixed rate for entire term
  • Property Taxes — JAAG pays municipality
  • Property Insurance — Covers building from fire, weather, damages, (JAAG recommends that all clients have tenant or content insurance)
  • Monthly Down Payment Credit — Accumulates throughout 3 years and credited at closing

Example Breakdown

Hypothetical $500K Home

Component Monthly Amount
Mortgage $2,800*
Property Taxes $400*
Insurance $200*
Down Payment Credit $600*
Total Payment ~$4,000*

*Actual amounts vary by property, rate, and location

Why This Matters

All-Inclusive Approach

Component JAAG Traditional Mortgage
Mortgage Yes Yes
Property Taxes Included You pay separately
Insurance Included You pay separately
Down Payment Savings Included Not applicable
Payment Fluctuations? No, Predetermined for entire term Yes, Changes at term renewal
Credit Support Included Costs $1,500-$3,000+

No Hidden Fees

  • No application fees
  • No monthly management fees
  • No interest payments
  • No completion fees
  • No surprise costs

Payment Certainty

For 3+ years, you know exactly what you owe—no surprises, no increases, no fluctuations. This allows you to budget confidently and focus on credit repair.

Closing costs are lawyer fees and associated costs required to purchase a home. With JAAG, you pay $0 at the start—JAAG covers all closing costs. At program end, you’re responsible for hiring your own lawyer and paying closing costs. Your deposits and monthly credits are credited at closing and can be applied toward these costs.

How It Works

When JAAG Purchases (Program Start)

  • JAAG pays all lawyer fees
  • JAAG pays all closing costs
  • Your cost: $0

When You Purchase (Program End)

  • You hire your own lawyer
  • You pay your own closing costs
  • Covered by: Your deposits + monthly credits (credited at closing)

Your Credits at Closing

Your initial deposit and all monthly credits are transferred to you at closing on the Statement of Adjustments—just like a down payment credit on any home purchase.

Example ($500K Home):

Item Amount
Initial deposit $15,000*
Monthly credits (3 years × $600) $21,600*
Total credit at closing $36,600*

*Actual amounts vary by property, rate, and location

These credits help offset your closing costs and down payment at purchase.

PROPERTY, PURCHASE & IMPROVEMENTS

Yes, you get to choose your home from the open market. JAAG does not hold inventory—you have complete freedom to select any listed property or private sale in Ontario that fits your approved purchase price.

What You Can Choose

  • Any listed property on the open market in Ontario within your approved budget
  • Any private sale within your approved budget
  • Any property type: Single-family homes, semi-detached, condominiums, townhouses
  • Complete freedom within your budget range

Working with a Realtor

Scenario What Happens
You have a Realtor Continue working with your current Realtor
You need a Realtor JAAG introduces you to someone familiar with our process
Realtor’s role Shows homes, negotiates offers, handles paperwork

When Your Search Starts

Your home search begins after you complete your application and receive final approval. At that point:

  • You know your approved purchase price
  • You can confidently search within your approved budget
  • No surprises or misaligned expectations

Your Approved Price is Your Upper Limit

The home you choose must fit within your specific approved purchase price. This is your ceiling, based on your financial situation and ability to qualify for a mortgage at the program’s end. This protects you from overextending.

Rent-to-Own (or Rent-to-Home with JAAG) is a service that lets you move into your future home now while building the credit and savings to qualify for a traditional mortgage later. You live in the home, make a single monthly payment that includes your mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and down payment credits, and work with our credit team to become mortgage-ready—usually within 3-4 years.

Key benefits:

  • Move in now (no waiting to qualify first)
  • Build equity while renting
  • Predetermine your purchase price from day one
  • Get dedicated credit team support
  • Flexible purchase timelines (buy in 1, 2, 3, or 4 years once you qualify)

Who it’s for: Clients who want to own a home but can’t qualify for a traditional mortgage today due to credit issues, self-employment income, divorce, being new to Canada, or limited down payment savings.

Yes, absolutely. JAAG Properties is happy to work with your existing realtor, you already know and trust them to put in an offer on the house you want. JAAG is not a real estate brokerage, we rely on licensed realtors to draft offers and manage the purchase process.

How it Works

  • If you have a Realtor: You keep your realtor. We work directly with them, providing our specific purchase criteria (budget, inspection requirements, etc.) to ensure they can write the strongest offer.
  • If you don’t have a Realtor: We can connect you with a local agent who has experience with our Rent-to-Home services in your area. This can sometimes speed up the process because they already understand our exact requirements.

Does my Realtor get paid?

Yes. Your realtor earns their standard commission paid by the seller of the home. You do not pay them out of pocket.

Comparison: Choosing Your Representation

Feature Using Your Own Realtor Using a JAAG Partner Realtor
Trust Level You already know and trust them. They’re pre-vetted by JAAG—experienced, trusted partners
Program Knowledge JAAG will guide them through our process. They understand our exact requirements—budget, inspection needs, and offer process—from experience with our program.
Compensation Seller pays commission + JAAG 1% Referral Fee (if they referred you). Seller pays standard commission — straightforward and simple.
Offer Speed Normal speed. Can be faster since they understand our purchase criteria from previous deals.

Reality Check: The “Double Dip” Bonus for Realtors

Realtors who refer you to JAAG are incentivized to prioritize your deal. They earn their standard seller commission plus a 1% referral fee from JAAG, plus future client referrals. This means you get a partner who’s committed to closing your deal.

Regulatory Note:

All Ontario real estate transactions are governed by the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO). Every realtor we work with—whether yours or ours—is RECO-licensed and accountable to these professional standards. This protects you throughout the transaction.

When we determine your future purchase price, these factors play a role:

1. Today’s Market Value

The property is purchased at today’s market value or the price set by the seller. This is your starting point.

2. Conservative Appreciation Rate

Based on the area and property type, a conservative annual appreciation rate is determined from historical market data. For example, even if market data suggests 7-10% appreciation, we use 5% as our basis.

Over your program term (typically 2-4 years), this appreciation rate is applied to calculate your future purchase price.

3. Credit Team Verification

Your final purchase price is verified by our Credit Team and mortgage experts to ensure it’s within your expected mortgage approval budget at the program’s end.

Benefits of a Pre-Determined Purchase Price

  • Market Volatility Removed — A predetermined purchase price eliminates uncertainty about future affordability
  • Fixed Down Payment — You know exactly what to save; no need to chase rising housing prices
  • Build Equity — As the market appreciates above your predetermined price, you build equity through the program

Your minimum initial deposit is 3% of your approved purchase price. This deposit is used as your offer deposit when JAAG purchases the home, and you’ll build the remaining down payment through monthly credits over your program term.

How Your Deposit Works

Component Amount Purpose
Initial Deposit 3% of approved purchase price Offer deposit for home purchase
Example $500K home = $15,000 Used when JAAG buys the property
Monthly Credits Built during 3-year term Additional down payment savings
At Closing Initial deposit + monthly credits Your full down payment

What Happens at Closing

  • Your initial deposit is returned to you as a credit on your Statement of Adjustments
  • All monthly credits are returned to you as a credit on your Statement of Adjustments
  • Works exactly like a traditional offer deposit

How Much Down Payment Will You Need?

The 3% gets you started. Your full down payment at closing depends on:

  • Your final purchase price
  • Your credit and financial situation
  • Lender requirements (typically 5%, 10%, or 15% down)

JAAG’s Credit Team determines your target down payment and structures monthly credits to ensure you have exactly what you need by year 3.

You do. When you enter the JAAG services, you take homeowner responsibilities as if you’re already on title. This builds pride of ownership and prepares you for actual homeownership.

Your Responsibilities

Regular Maintenance (Ongoing)

  • Lawn care and landscaping
  • Interior cleaning
  • Minor repairs and maintenance
  • Seasonal maintenance (gutters, weatherproofing)

Capital Expenses (Major Repairs)

  • Furnace repair or replacement
  • Roof repairs or replacement
  • Water heater replacement
  • Electrical system upgrades
  • Plumbing system replacements
  • Major appliance repairs or replacement
  • Structural repairs

Insurance Deductibles If JAAG files a claim for weather or natural events, you pay the deductible ($2,000).

Why This Works

Every dollar you invest in maintenance and improvements builds your equity at the predetermined purchase price. You’re not just renting—you’re functioning as a homeowner.

JAAG’s Pre-Move-In Role

  • Complete home inspection (identifies critical safety issues)
  • Complete essential repairs (you start with a sound property)

Property taxes and property insurance (structure) are included in your consolidated monthly payment. You pay separately for tenant/content insurance.

What’s Included in Your Monthly Payment

Property Taxes — JAAG pays municipality; calculated and predetermined

Property Insurance (Structure) — JAAG pays; covers building damage from fire, weather.

What You Pay Separately

Tenant/Content Insurance — JAAG recommends you purchase one to cover:

  • Your personal belongings (furniture, electronics, clothing, valuables)
  • JAAG’s property insurance does NOT cover your belongings

Payment is Predetermined

Your total monthly payment is predetermined for the entire term—never increases, even if property taxes rise or insurance rates change.

Why Consolidated Payments Work

Traditional mortgage payments only include principal + interest. JAAG’s payment includes mortgage, property taxes, property insurance, AND down payment credits—delivering significantly more value.

Yes, absolutely. Make improvements that increase the home’s value—every dollar you invest benefits you when you purchase. Treat the house as your own from day one.

What You Can Improve

Cosmetic Improvements (Always Encouraged)

  • Paint interior/exterior
  • Landscaping and gardening
  • Decorating and décor updates

Minor Upgrades (With Approval)

  • New fixtures, hardware, lighting
  • Flooring upgrades
  • Value-adding updates (kitchen, bathroom, deck repairs)

Major Upgrades (With Approval)

  • Finished Basement
  • New Kitchen
  • Additions
  • New Garage

Maintenance

  • Keep home clean and well-maintained
  • Regular upkeep and care

How to Build Equity

Your purchase price is predetermined at program start. Any improvements you make increase the home’s value beyond that predetermined price.

Example:

Item Amount
Fixed purchase price $500,000*
Home value after your improvements $575,000*
Your equity gain $75,000*

*This example is illustrative. Actual equity gains depend on improvements made, market conditions, and property appreciation—results vary and are not guaranteed.

Capital Expenses

You’re responsible for all major repairs (furnace, roof, electrical, plumbing systems, structural work)—just as a homeowner would be. These maintain property value and build your homeownership experience.

See FAQ: Who pays for repairs and maintenance? for a full capital expenses list.

PROCESS & PROTECTION

Yes. JAAG requires a home inspection before making any offer, even in competitive markets. This protects you from hidden issues and ensures the property is a sound investment.

Why Inspections Are Required

  • Identify safety hazards and major issues
  • Avoid surprise repairs after purchase
  • Ensure sound long-term investment
  • Protect both you and JAAG

Inspection Details

Question Answer
Cost You pay (standard real estate cost)
Timing After offer is made during the conditional period
Inspector JAAG has contacts with licensed professional (OAHI) that we have used in the past and recommended
Coverage Structural, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roof, foundation, appliances, safety

What Happens With Results

  • No major issues → Move forward to offer
  • Minor issues → Address in negotiations
  • Major repairs needed → JAAG may recommend different property

Bottom Line

The inspection protects your investment as a future homeowner. It’s a standard step that prevents problems after purchase.

If the purchase price or immediate repairs are not within your approved budget, we will direct you to a property that fits your budget.

Two Reasons We Might Not Buy Your Chosen Home

Reason What It Means Your Options
Purchase price exceeds your approved budget The home costs more than your approved amount 1. Look at properties within budget / 2. Negotiate price with seller / 3. Review your approved budget with our team
Immediate repairs exceed your approved budget Home inspection reveals repairs beyond your budget 1. Choose a different property / 2. Negotiate repair costs with the seller / 3. Adjust your property criteria

How We Help You Find the Right Home

When your chosen home doesn’t fit your approved budget, we don’t stop there. We offer options:

  • Option 1: Find Alternative Properties — We direct you to properties within your approved budget that meet your needs
  • Option 2: Negotiate with Seller — We help explore if the seller will adjust price or repair obligations
  • Option 3: Review Your Budget — We discuss your approved budget with our Credit Team to see if adjustments are possible

Why Budget Approval Matters

Your approved budget is based on:

  • Your ability to qualify for a mortgage at program’s end
  • Your financial capacity throughout the program
  • Your path to successful homeownership

The Bottom Line

We won’t buy a home outside your approved budget. But we will work with you to find a solution that keeps you on track to homeownership success.

We extend the program. If you can’t obtain a mortgage by term end, JAAG will work with you to extend until you qualify. This extension clause is built into your Purchase Option Agreement.

How Extension Works

Conditions for Extension

You’re eligible to extend if:

  • You’re in good standing (no breach of contract)
  • No missed payments
  • You’re actively working with the Credit Team
  • Continued commitment to the program

Extension Changes

  • The monthly payment amount is recalculated based on current interest rates, taxes and insurance. Similar to when you started working with JAAG
  • The monthly down payment credits would be readjusted. As you have saved almost the full down payment, you probably will not need as much so this would be altered to only the amount you might need
  • Credit Team support continues
  • New mortgage qualification timeline established

Why Extension is Needed

Common Scenarios:

Scenario 1: Credit improving but target not hit yet—one more year of repair gets you there

Scenario 2: Credit ready, but income short—if you changed jobs during the term

Scenario 3: Self-employed income documentation delays—a few more months gets documented income ready

This is unique to JAAG

Most rent-to-own providers lock you into the original term. Instead, JAAG offers:

  • Extension built into agreement
  • Early buy-out if you qualify sooner
  • Multiple flexibility options
  • Partnership model (we succeed when you succeed)

Reality Check

Extension is a protection, not a guarantee. It requires:

  • On-time monthly payments
  • Active Credit Team engagement
  • Contract compliance
  • Your continued commitment

The extension exists because we believe in you—but success still requires your effort.

Yes. One of the key benefits of JAAG’s program is the ability to extend if you need more time to qualify for a mortgage.

How Extension Works

  • JAAG has a clause in the Purchase Option Agreement that allows you to extend the program as long as you are not in breach of contract
  • You can request an extension if you need more time to repair credit or save additional funds
  • No forced timeline — You’re not locked into the original 3-4 year term

When Extension Applies

Extension is available if:

  • You’re working with your Credit Team on credit improvement
  • You’ve been making payments on time
  • You’re not in breach of contract

Why JAAG Offers This

JAAG recognizes life happens. Rather than force you into homeownership before you’re ready, extending the program gives you:

  • More time to build credit
  • More time to accumulate down payment savings
  • Better chance of mortgage qualification

JAAG works with you before terminating. You’re not immediately in default—JAAG follows a structured, client-focused process.

If You’re Struggling with Payments

JAAG’s first step is to help, not penalize:

  • Implement payment options if you’re having difficulty
  • Work with you on flexible arrangements to get back on track
  • No automatic contract termination for non-payment

If You Continue Struggling: Warning Letter Process

If payment issues persist:

  1. First Non-Payment — Receive a First Warning Letter
  2. Second Non-Payment — Receive a Second Warning Letter
  3. Final Non-Payment (Same Year) — Receive a Final Breach Letter and may be given an option to reinstate the purchase agreement at a cost

If You Want to Exit

If you’re unable or unwilling to continue:

  • JAAG can help you exit the program
  • Deposit recovery possible — JAAG will work with you to return some or all of your deposit through the home sale
  • No forced penalties when handled through mutual agreement

Reality Check

Breaking the agreement has consequences. But JAAG’s approach prioritizes working WITH you to find solutions rather than immediately terminating your contract.

No. The Purchase Option Agreement legally protects you from the seller backing out.

How You’re Protected

  • The Purchase Option Agreement gives you the right to the property during the term
  • The owner/seller cannot sell or offer the house to anyone else during the program term
  • Your purchase price is predetermined and secured for the duration of the Rent to Home program
  • This protection is similar to placing a 3-year conditional offer on a home—the seller cannot sell to someone else during the conditional period

What This Means

  • You have complete security that the home will be available for you to purchase
  • Your predetermined purchase price cannot be changed by the seller
  • The seller’s only option is to wait for you to complete or exit the program

Why This Matters

This protection is crucial because it:

  • Prevents the seller from selling to someone else if market conditions change
  • Guarantees your predetermined purchase price remains unchanged
  • Eliminates uncertainty about the property’s availability

No, not initially. Since you’re renting (not purchasing) during the program, you don’t need a lawyer to start. However, JAAG offers you the opportunity to get independent legal advice.

JAAG’s Approach

  • JAAG offers you the option to seek independent legal advice (ILA)
  • If you choose to pursue ILA, an ILA form simply documents that decision with JAAG
  • It’s your choice — You can get independent legal advice or proceed without it

Important Note

Hiring and paying your own independent lawyer is your responsibility if you choose legal advice, as JAAG cannot participate in this process to uphold legal frameworks that prevent conflicts of interest in client representation.

Why Consider Independent Legal Advice?

While not required, an independent lawyer can help you:

  • Understand your rights and obligations
  • Clarify the Purchase Option Agreement terms
  • Review deposit protection clauses
  • Understand what happens if you can’t qualify for a mortgage

Bottom Line

You don’t need a lawyer to begin the program, but JAAG gives you the option to seek independent legal advice at your own cost if you want additional clarity.

Yes, rent-to-own is legal in Ontario. However, it requires two separate, carefully structured legal agreements governed by the Residential Tenancies Act and Purchase Option Contract.

Legal Framework

Rent-to-own in Ontario involves:

  • Tenant Lease Agreement — Governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA); covers rent, responsibilities, and tenant rights
  • Option-to-Purchase Agreement — Specifies predetermined price, purchase date, and how rent credits build equity/down payment
  • Contract Law — Both agreements are enforced through standard contract law

Key Protections

  • Predetermined purchase price is legally binding (Pre-set at program start)
  • Tenant rights are protected under the RTA
  • Deposit credits are documented in the agreements
  • Lease terms cannot include unfair annual increases

Individual Risk Assessment

JAAG is partner-focused—your success is our success, and our shared goal is getting you to full homeownership. While JAAG’s approach reduces risk, increases flexibility, and maximizes your chances of success, independent legal advice is still essential to assess your unique risk, questions, and circumstances.

Bottom Line

Rent-to-own is a legal, recognized path to homeownership in Ontario when structured properly with clear agreements. JAAG’s Tenant Lease and Purchase Option Agreement follow Ontario law.

STRUCTURE & LEGALITY

JAAG uses a lease-option structure. This gives you the RIGHT to buy—not the obligation. You can choose to purchase or walk away.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature Lease-Option (JAAG) Purchase
Can you choose NOT to buy? Yes No—you must buy
Can you extend the term? Yes (JAAG allows extension) Usually locked in
Early buyout option? Yes (1, 2, 3-year options) Typically no
Legal structure Tenant Lease + Purchase Option Agreement Single Lease-Purchase Agreement
If you can’t qualify for a mortgage? Extend program, try again Forced to complete or default

How JAAG’s Lease-Option Works

Two Separate Agreements:

  1. Tenant Lease Agreement — You rent the property with a predetermined monthly payment (no annual increases)
  2. Purchase Option Agreement — Gives you the RIGHT to buy at a predetermined price during the program term

Your Flexibility:

  • Early buyout at 1, 2, 3, or 4 years (pre-set prices)
  • Extend if you need more time to qualify
  • Walk away (deposit refundable minus costs)
  • Predetermined purchase price remains unchanged throughout

No. JAAG Properties provides credit repair services free of charge for all Rent-to-Home clients.

What’s Included (No Extra Cost)

  • Full credit team support throughout your program
  • Credit file analysis and error disputes
  • Budgeting assistance
  • Financial coaching
  • Mortgage preparation guidance

How It Works

Your credit team support is built directly into your monthly payment—there are no additional fees, application charges, or management costs. When you succeed, we succeed.

Start the process. Get pre-approved today!