James and Bonnie have been married for over a decade and raising their two kids in rental homes since day one. Like many families, they dreamed of one day owning their own place—a home where their kids could grow up with stability and security.  Here they share their rent-to-own success story.

The Challenge

When COVID restrictions hit, James was laid off from his job. The unexpected loss of income forced the couple to rely on credit to get through that difficult time. Unfortunately, this left a lasting impact on James’s credit history.

Even after James found new employment and the family managed to save 8% for a down payment, they were declined for a mortgage because of his credit score. The bank’s advice was clear but disheartening: “Come back in three years once the credit is repaired.”

The Turning Point: Discovering Rent-to-Own

Rather than spending those years renting and waiting, James and Bonnie looked for alternatives. That’s when they discovered Rent-to-Own in Ontario—a program that allowed them to move into a home right away while repairing their credit and saving for their future down payment.

In 2022, they found a home that fit their family perfectly:

  • Enough space for their kids

  • A safe, stable neighborhood

  • The reassurance that their payments were building equity instead of disappearing into rent

The Journey: Three Years of Commitment

Over the next three years, James and Bonnie showed resilience and determination:

  • Credit Repair: James steadily improved his credit score by paying down debt and managing credit responsibly.

  • Extra Savings: Together, they saved an additional 5% toward their down payment.

  • Equity Building: Through their Rent-to-Own payments, they accumulated $18,000 in credits, which were applied directly to their home purchase.

The Outcome: Proud Homeowners in 2025

In early 2025, James and Bonnie officially completed their Rent-to-Own program and became proud homeowners. Their journey is proof that with the right program, persistence, and support, families can overcome obstacles that banks often see as roadblocks.

Today, their children have the stability of a forever home, and James and Bonnie have the security of knowing they turned a challenge into a life-changing success.

In Their Own Words

“Rent-to-Own gave us the chance the bank wouldn’t. Instead of waiting three years renting, we spent those three years owning, saving, and repairing credit at the same time. Now we’re exactly where the bank told us we couldn’t be—homeowners.”

Final Thoughts

This Rent-to-Own success story highlights what’s possible when families don’t give up on their dream of homeownership. James and Bonnie turned a financial setback into an opportunity—and today, their success inspires others who may be facing similar challenges.

If you’re in Ontario or Alberta and wondering if Rent-to-Own could be your path to homeownership, [start your free pre-qualification today].