Dream House up for rent. Interested in purchasing. Need advice.

[Jared Chipkin]

There is the cutest Spanish style house that just came up for rent in my neighborhood.  My wife and I have had our eye set on this house since we moved in to the area 10yrs ago.  It is in Littleton, Co where the market is super hot. The for rent sign specifically says not for sale!  I am going to call the owner today or tomorrow but wanted to get BPers thoughts before I call.  Ideally they may be interested in some sort of lease option where we put money down and/or have and option fee, plus sign a long term contract.