If you're preparing to sell your home, you're likely focused on curb appeal, staging, market trends, and maybe even finding your next dream house. But here's something many homeowners overlook during the process: that rent-to-own shed sitting in your backyard.

It might just be a shed, but if it’s part of a rent-to-own agreement, it’s more than just a structure — it’s a financial obligation that needs attention before closing the deal.

What is a Rent-to-Own Shed?

Rent-to-own sheds have become increasingly popular as affordable storage solutions. These agreements allow you to pay monthly for a shed over a set period, after which you own it outright. It's a great option for spreading out the cost — until it's time to sell your home.

Why It Matters When Selling Your Home

1. It’s Not Technically Yours Yet
If you haven’t paid off the shed, you don’t fully own it. That means you technically can’t include it in the sale unless you settle the remaining balance or transfer the agreement — and that can complicate the sale.

2. It Can Affect the Closing Process
Title companies and buyers want everything clear and clean before a sale is finalized. An outstanding rent-to-own contract on something fixed to the property might raise questions — and red flags.

3. You May Be On the Hook
If you leave the shed without settling the agreement or discussing it with the buyer, you could still be responsible for payments after the home is sold — and that’s a headache no one wants.

What Should You Do?

Here are a few quick steps to make sure your shed doesn’t trip up your home sale:

• Check Your Contract
  Find out exactly how much you still owe, if anything, and whether there are penalties or fees for early payoff.
• Pay It Off (If Possible)
  Many homeowners choose to pay off the remaining balance before listing the property to simplify the transaction.
• Disclose It to Your Agent and Buyer
  Honesty is key. Let your real estate agent and potential buyers know about the shed’s rent-to-own status. Transparency can avoid delays.
• Negotiate It Into the Sale
  In some cases, you may be able to transfer the agreement or add the payoff amount into the home price — with buyer and lender approval.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home comes with a checklist a mile long. While the shed in your backyard might seem like a small detail, overlooking a rent-to-own agreement can cause unnecessary delays or legal headaches. Take care of it early, and you’ll be one step closer to a smooth and successful sale.

Got questions about how to handle your rent-to-own shed during your sale? Talk to your real estate agent or the company you’re leasing the shed from — and stay one step ahead.

Would you like a shorter version or something more casual for social media?