Share

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Instagram
• Share on Pinterest
• Share on X

March 13, 2024

How To Rent Then Own in Idaho with Trade Up

For many Idaho residents, renting feels like a necessary step before homeownership. The challenge is that rent payments typically do not help buyers move closer to owning a home. CBH Homes created the Trade Up Program to change that experience by giving renters a clear path from renting to owning a brand new CBH home.

The Trade Up Program is not a traditional rent-to-own agreement. Instead, it allows renters living in qualifying CBH Rental properties to earn credits that can later be applied toward the purchase of a new CBH home.

What Is the CBH Trade Up Program?

The CBH Trade Up Program allows renters in Idaho to earn home purchase credits while living in a CBH Rental property. When a renter is ready to buy, those credits can be applied toward eligible costs on a new CBH home.

Unlike many rent-to-own programs, Trade Up does not require a separate option contract or lock renters into purchasing the home they are living in. Renters maintain flexibility while preparing financially for homeownership.

How the Trade Up Program Works

Rent With CBH Rentals

To participate, renters must live in a qualifying property managed by CBH Rentals, which includes apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes across the Treasure Valley.

Earn Monthly Trade Up Credits

Renters earn 10 percent of their monthly rent in Trade Up credits when payments are made on time. Credits accumulate up to a maximum of $5,000.

These credits can be applied toward eligible purchase costs when buying a new CBH home, including:

• Closing costs
• Mortgage interest rate buy-downs
• Appliances or upgrades
• Landscaping, fencing, blinds, and other home features

Buy a New CBH Home With No Lease Break Fee

When a renter chooses to purchase a new CBH home, CBH will waive the lease break fee on the rental. This removes one of the most common financial barriers renters face when transitioning into homeownership.

Apply Credits at Closing

Trade Up credits are applied at the time of purchase and help reduce upfront costs, making the move from renting to owning more attainable.

Why the Trade Up Program Works for Idaho Renters

Builds Savings While Renting

According to national housing research, saving for upfront home costs is one of the biggest challenges for first-time buyers. Programs that reduce closing costs can significantly improve buyer readiness.

Avoids Traditional Rent-to-Own Risks

Traditional rent-to-own agreements often involve non-refundable option fees and strict purchase obligations. If the renter cannot buy, they may lose accumulated funds.

Trade Up differs because renters are in a standard lease and only use credits if they choose to buy a CBH home.

Offers Flexibility and Transparency

Renters are not required to purchase the home they live in and are not locked into a future purchase timeline. This flexibility aligns with CBH Homes’ goal of making the homebuying process more approachable and predictable.

Trade Up vs Traditional Rent-to-Own Programs

Feature	CBH Trade Up Program	Traditional Rent-to-Own
Rent Credits Earned	10 percent of rent, up to $5,000	Varies
Lease Break Fee	Waived when buying	Typically charged
Separate Purchase Contract	No	Yes
Flexibility to Walk Away	Yes	Often limited
Applies to New Construction	Yes	Usually no

Is the Trade Up Program Right for You?

The Trade Up Program may be a good fit if you:

• Are currently renting in Idaho
• Want to purchase a new construction home in the future
• Need help covering closing costs or upgrades
• Prefer flexibility without a binding rent-to-own contract

For renters who want a clear and realistic path to owning a home, Trade Up provides a practical stepping stone.