💡 How It Works
From Rent to Roots: This is not a handout. It’s a hand up.
At Rent to Roots, we believe that stable housing creates strong families and stronger communities. Our program isn’t about giving homes away—it’s about empowering families to earn homeownership through consistency, education, and commitment.
1. Property Acquisition & Renovation
We identify affordable homes in Putnam County, Ohio—often properties that need some work but have solid potential. The nonprofit purchases and renovates each home, making it safe, clean, and dignified for new tenants. All improvements follow a clear renovation plan and are managed with care.
2. Tenant Selection
Tenants apply through a detailed intake process. We look for families and individuals with financial need, a connection to the community, and a genuine desire to become homeowners. This is not for those looking for a temporary rental—it’s for those ready to commit to a new future.
3. Affordable, Purpose-Driven Rent
Tenants pay a fixed, below-market rent—but that rent has a purpose. It’s not just paying for a roof over their head. It’s part of a larger journey toward ownership. Every month they participate in the program, they can earn non-cash credits that build toward a down payment.
4. Tenant Responsibilities
This program requires effort and accountability. To remain in good standing, tenants must:
- ✅ Attend at least one financial education class each month
- ✅ Submit a monthly household budget
- ✅ Make progress toward agreed-upon financial goals
- ✅ Participate in quarterly coaching/review sessions
- ✅ Keep the home clean and safe
- ✅ Communicate proactively about any challenges or missed steps
This is a commitment—one that works only if you do.
5. Earned Credit System
Each month, tenants can earn up to 400 credits based on participation and progress:
| Activity | Monthly Credits |
|---|---|
| Rent paid on time | 100 |
| Financial class attended | 100 |
| Budget submitted | 100 |
| Financial goal progress made | 100 |
| Total Possible Credits | 400 |
Over 36 months, tenants can earn a maximum of 14,400 credits, each valued at $1.00, totaling $14,400 toward a down payment.
6. Use of Earned Credits
Credits are not cash and cannot be withdrawn. They are securely held by the nonprofit and may only be used for one purpose:
- 🏡 A down payment on a home in Putnam County, Ohio
- 🧾 Credits are disbursed directly to the title company at closing—never to the tenant
- 💼 The home must be purchased through a qualified lender and meet minimum homeownership readiness criteria
7. Forfeiture of Credits
Credits are earned—but they can also be lost. Credits may be forfeited if the tenant:
- ❌ Voluntarily exits the program before completing it
- ❌ Is evicted for cause (e.g., non-payment, lease violations)
- ❌ Misses two or more months of program participation without communication
- ❌ Fails to maintain basic lease or program obligations
This system is designed to reward effort, consistency, and growth.
8. Graduation: From Renter to Homeowner
When the time is right—after 24 to 36 months—tenants who meet the program requirements can purchase their home or another approved property in the county. Their credits are applied to the down payment at closing, and they officially become homeowners.
Even after move-in, we continue offering support for budgeting, maintenance, and long-term success.
❤️ Why It Matters
We’re not just creating homeowners. We’re:
- Reducing generational poverty
- Building financial confidence
- Stabilizing neighborhoods
- Inspiring hope
👣 What’s Next
We’re in the launch phase — fundraising, forming partnerships, and identifying our first pilot property. If you believe in housing with dignity and opportunity, we invite you to join us.