Key Vs. Rent-to-own

Key's biggest difference from Rent-to-Own is that you build equity in your home right from the moment you move in. Here's how Key can save you thousands over Rent-to-own programs in Canada.

The gist
= a total savings of $96,130
Financial comparison
Rent-to-own

The details

For a $600,000 home starting with a 2.5% down payment ($15,000) for a 5-year program, with a final fixed home purchase price of $765,800 (5% annual appreciation), purchased with a 10% down payment ($76,600)

Monthly payments

Occupancy Cost
$3,600
$4,800
Home equity deposit
$624
$1,000
Total Monthly cost
$4,224
$5,800

Total cost & savings

Total occupancy spend
$3,600
$4,800
Total equity spend
$624
$1,000
Additional equity given to you during term
$24,130
$0

The results

By choosing Key to buy a $600,000 home with a 5-year program, you:

Save $72,000 in occupancy payments
Save $24,130 in home equity
A total savings of $96,130
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Note: Comparisons are estimated based on standard Rent-to-Own programs available in Canada in 2025. Information is subject to change and all financial data should be verified with individual companies before making decisions. For Key’s most up-to-date numbers, you can refer to our calculator.

Feature comparison

Now that you've taken a look at the financial comparisons above, here's an overview of Key's main differences from Rent to Own.

Rent-to-own
Equity

Build equity from day one

With Key, you start building home equity from day one. You also get additional equity from Key to help you save for your downpayment faster. For every $1000 of equity you put in, you get$450-$600 in additional equity from Key.

Not building equity right away

With rent-to-own models, you start building equity only after your lease period is over and you decide to purchase the home.

Payments

Lower monthly payments

With Key, your monthly payments are a combination of mortgage-like costs alongside equity deposits designed to build your equity to take full ownership. Additionally, you get additional equity from Key with your equity deposits, helping you save faster for your final down payment.

Not building equity right away

With rent-to-own models, your monthly payments would be higher than with Key and you don’t get additional equity. It’s similar to depositing money into a savings account without interest.

Fees

No hidden fees

With full transparency, you will always know exactly what you are paying for. Our low fees are below market rates and are clearly outlined before you sign your contract.

Extra upfront fees

With rent-to-own you're on the hook for non-refundable upfront fees that typically range between 1-5% of the purchase price.

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...ok we will. Key vs. others

Vs. Traditional ownership

2.5% down payment

With a low down payment of only 2.5% and delayed mortgage qualification, Key lowers your barriers to enter the property ladder.

Vs. Co-ownership

Zero unexpected costs

Key provides a stable pathway to full ownership with no unexpected costs. With Key, the final purchase price of your home is pre-determined.