Rental Tenants or Lease Option Tenants

[DG H.]

I use to do many lease options in Texas in the late 90's. Some worked for a while and I still have two paying...but out of probably 30 deals most didn't turn out well in some ways. At least with the option money I had money to repair the property in comparision to the small deposit I get from rentals that NEVER cover the damage.

New rules in Texas and lease options aren't worth jumping through the hoops BUT most of the tenants still call and ask for lease option properties. 

Many landlords still do them just under the radar.

My questions is WHY would a tenant want to rent to own instead of just rent? Do they "think" the landlord will stay out of "their" home; because most of these renters NEVER complete the option. Why not just rent? After all these years I still don't understand the mind set. They usually only have $1500 to put toward the option...and in my experience don't really take care of the property and NEVER buy the property.

Frankly I would do the lease options all day with lots and lots of screening since it's easier to repair with $1500 than with $600. 

Disclaimer: I live in rural Texas with low income. A nice 3/1, CH&A with fenced back yard is $675.00 with $500.00 deposit.

Any ideas or your experience?

Thanks in advance and Great $uccess to All