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How Are a Bond for Deed and Owner Financing Similar or Different?

Traditional owner financing is quite similar to a Bond for Deed, but oftentimes with a Bond for Deed, the deed and title are placed in third-party escrow to protect the parties' interests. Payments are still made to the seller directly, and if the buyer defaults, the seller can institute legal proceedings to get the property back. In most states, the buyer can then countersue and claim reimbursement for all home restorations and improvements, provided they enhanced the value of the house.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Using a Bond for Deed?

A Bond for Deed typically allows the buyer and seller to work out an arrangement much faster. It does not require the same legal filings in most states, and it can be executed within a matter of hours or days, depending on how quickly the two can agree. But the shortened nature of the agreement opens the buyer up to more risk as default results in repossession without reimbursement. Traditional owner-financing options, on the other hand, can take longer, but the contract can also be developed to provide better protection to the buyer rather than just the seller.

Please note: This page offers general legal information, not but not legal advice tailored for your specific legal situation. Rocket Lawyer Incorporated isn't a law firm or a substitute for one. For further information on this topic, you can Ask a Legal Pro.


Written and Reviewed by Experts
Written and Reviewed by Experts
This article was created, edited and reviewed by trained editorial staff who specialize in translating complex legal topics into plain language.

At Rocket Lawyer, we believe legal information should be both reliable and easy to understand—so you don't need a law degree to feel informed. We follow a rigorous editorial policy to ensure every article is helpful, clear, and as accurate and up-to-date as possible.

About this page:

  • This article was written and reviewed by Rocket Lawyer editorial staff
  • This article was last reviewed or updated on Sep 22, 2022

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