Sell Your Home and Stay: The Complete Guide to Sale-Leaseback Programs

For many homeowners in distress, the hardest part isn't the financial pressure — it's the thought of leaving their home. What if there was a way to solve the financial problem without moving? That's exactly what sale-leaseback programs offer.

What Is a Sale-Leaseback?

A residential sale-leaseback is simple in concept: you sell your home to a buyer (usually an investor or a company) and immediately sign a lease to continue living there as a tenant. You receive cash from your equity at closing, and instead of a mortgage payment, you pay rent.

How It Works Step by Step

1. You agree to sell your home at a fair price to a vetted buyer
2. At closing, the sale proceeds pay off your mortgage and you receive remaining equity as cash
3. You sign a lease agreement (typically 1-3 years) to stay in the home
4. You pay monthly rent instead of a mortgage payment
5. Some programs include a buy-back option at a predetermined price

Who Benefits from Sale-Leaseback?

• Families with kids in school who don't want to disrupt their education
• Homeowners who need equity cash but love their neighborhood
• People facing foreclosure who need to eliminate their mortgage quickly
• Seniors who want to age in place while accessing equity
• Anyone who needs time to rebuild their finances before purchasing again

What to Watch Out For

• Fair market price: Make sure the sale price is reasonable, not a lowball offer taking advantage of your situation
• Lease terms: Understand the length, rent amount, and any escalation clauses
• Buy-back terms: If offered, get the buy-back price and timeline in writing
• Eviction protections: Know your rights as a tenant under your state's laws
• Legal review: Always have an attorney review the sale and lease agreements