A rent-to-own CEO shares his perspective on this solution for portable storage purchases.
I know what you’re thinking.
“This CEO of an RTO company doesn’t know what it’s like to get dirty, swing a hammer, or deal with the grind of a sales lot.”
But trust me, I get it. I’ve been there. I grew up in the Ozark Hills, where hard work was the only thing that kept food on the table. From frozen fingers on a nail gun, shooting myself, to falling off roofs, or cutting myself—I’ve been there.
And if you’ve been in this business long enough, you know exactly what I mean.
I’ve been that guy on the sales lot, hustling for the best deal, helping drivers deliver buildings, and dealing with repossessions when customers fell behind. I understand the tough realities of this business.
I started in this industry in 2008. Back then, I wasn’t sure what the future would look like. But over the years, I’ve learned just how powerful the rent-to-own (RTO) model is.
It’s not just a business gimmick—it’s a real solution for people like you and me. Here’s how RTO helps everyone involved.
1. CUSTOMERS
Let’s start with the obvious. Rent-to-own opens doors for customers who otherwise might not have the cash to make a big purchase up front. Whether they need a shed for tools, an office, or extra storage, RTO makes it possible to get what they need without breaking the bank.
The flexibility of RTO is a game-changer. Some customers might need a longer payment plan, while others prefer to pay it off quickly. This flexibility gives customers control over their situation.
RTO isn’t just about selling a building—it’s about solving problems and making life a little easier.
2. MANUFACTURERS
For manufacturers, RTO brings a steady stream of demand. And who doesn’t want that? More demand means more orders, and with more orders, manufacturers can plan ahead and stay productive.
But there’s more to it.
The impact on local economies can’t be overstated. More buildings sold means more jobs—from the people on the manufacturing floor to the staff in the office. Rent-to-own creates consistent work for a lot of people, and that has a ripple effect throughout the community.
3. DEALERS
Why do dealers love RTO? Offering rent-to-own means you’re opening up your market to a wider pool of customers. When people can pay in smaller installments, the idea of buying a large building isn’t so intimidating.
This flexibility leads to more sales.
And here’s the kicker: Dealers who master the RTO process see a big jump in their income. Whether it’s selling 10 percent more or 75 percent more each month, the difference is real. The key is understanding how RTO fits into your sales strategy.
Those who get it are positioned to earn more and build long-term customer relationships.
4. DRIVERS
If you’re a driver, I know there’s a lot of concern about the risks of working for a company that offers rent-to-own.
But here’s the good news: RTO creates more demand for deliveries. As dealers and manufacturers grow, there’s more work for drivers, more routes, and more consistency.
Not only does it mean more deliveries, but it also helps you stay in more concentrated areas, reducing your travel time.
And let’s be honest—driving is dangerous work. The more deliveries that happen close to home, the safer it is for everyone.
5. BUILDING LASTING RELATIONSHIPS
One of the most powerful aspects of rent-to-own is the lasting relationships it fosters.
When a customer enters into an RTO agreement, they’re not just buying a building—they’re committing to a long-term relationship with your company. They’ll be making payments on that building for months, sometimes years, which means trust is being built over time. And when trust is built, customers don’t just return—they refer others.
That’s the real magic of RTO: It’s not about a one-time sale; it’s about cultivating long-term loyalty and repeat business.
This is where things get crucial. Choosing the right RTO company isn’t just about transactional agreements—it’s about creating partnerships. You want a company that understands your business, values your employees and customers, and knows how to navigate the inevitable ups and downs of the RTO world.
Being upfront with each other and having a history of paying partners on time—while helping them through tough times—matters. Because at the end of the day, it’s more than just an RTO contract; it’s a partnership based on mutual trust and support.
IN CONCLUSION
Rent-to-own isn’t just about selling buildings. It’s about creating a system that works for everyone: customers, manufacturers, dealers, drivers, and everyone in between.
Whether you’re on the sales lot, delivering a building, or managing the factory floor, RTO helps meet the needs of customers and ensures that we all grow together. It’s a tool that helps people thrive in this industry, and it’s a model that works for everyone involved.
