Rent-to-own stores promise easy access to things you want right now. You walk in, pick out a shiny new TV or sofa, and walk out with it the same day. No credit check, no big upfront payment. It sounds simple. But there’s a catch. These deals often end up costing you twice as much—or more—than if you just saved up and bought the item outright. If you’re thinking about rent-to-own, it’s important to know what you’re really signing up for. Here’s a look at common rent-to-own items that can end up costing double, and what you can do instead.
