.png)
How Can I Buy a Home with Bad Credit in Stratford
A strong credit score is required to qualify for a traditional mortgage, but if your credit isn’t where it needs to be, that doesn’t mean homeownership is out of reach.
At Sprout Properties, we offer a flexible rent-to-own program that can help you purchase any home listed for sale in Stratford, regardless of your current credit situation. Our program is designed for buyers who are working on improving their finances but are ready to take the next step toward owning a home.
Contact us today to learn how we can help turn your homeownership goals into reality.
Why Rent to Own in Stratford
-
Move into your future home now—even if you’re not yet mortgage-ready
-
Lock in prices today—average home listing sits around $684K with detached homes averaging about $839K and condos around $501K, making entry easier compared to larger urban centres
-
Build equity gradually via structured payments—easing financial strain and boosting your credit
-
Tap into a stable, rising market—median days on market stand at ~23–26 days, and Stratford is ranked the 3rd most affordable medium-sized city in Ontario
Stratford is a culturally rich, affordable, and steadily growing city—ideal for those pursuing rent-to-own. You can move in now, start building equity amid a stable market, and enjoy a world-class arts scene and quality of life slightly outside major urban centres.
Rent to Own Stratford and Area Requirements
Minimum Household Income
$152,000
Minimum Down Payment
$28,000
*While we generally look for a minimum credit score of 500, please note that this requirement is subject to change.
Minimum Credit
500*
Do you meet the requirements for Rent-to-own in Stratford, Ontario and area?
Our goal is to support your long-term success, not just helping you move into a home, but ensuring you’re fully prepared to qualify for a mortgage by the end of your Rent-to-Own term.
To do that, certain minimum criteria need to be in place. If you’re not quite there yet, that’s okay—it may simply mean the timing isn’t right.
You can still apply now to get connected and receive more information, and we’ll happily guide you toward your next steps so you're ready when the time is right.
Stratford Key Features
Population & Growth
Home to ~35,300 residents (2025 est.), growing ~1.4% annually from 33,411 in 2021 to around 35,300 today. Median age ~46.8; median household income approximately $77K
Economy & Employment
Diversified base—manufacturing, agriculture, food processing, and a thriving tourism sector led by the Stratford Festival. Unemployment hovers near 10.8–11%, with strong participation in sales, trades, business, and education sectors
Recreation & Culture
Globally renowned Stratford Festival (four main stages, May–Oct), small-town charm with riverside Victorian downtown, arts gallery, and Justin Bieber heritage sites—all adding to vibrant cultural life
Housing & Affordability
Mix of heritage homes, bungalows, townhouses, condos; average rent ~$1,994/month (~5% below national average). The housing variety caters to first-time buyers, families, and investors.
Connectivity & Lifestyle
Walkable core, abundant parkland (highest per capita in Ontario), access to London & K-W within ~40 min, family-friendly vibe with good transit and healthcare (Stratford General Hospital)
Best Areas to Buy a Rent to Own Home in Stratford, Ontario
Devon Street Area
A quiet, residential pocket of Stratford, the Devon Street area offers tree-lined streets, well-kept homes, and a friendly, established community feel. It’s a great option for families and retirees looking for comfort, charm, and proximity to schools and parks.
Avon Ward/Avon River South
This area is charming and scenic, with character homes, mature trees, and parkland along the Avon River, making it ideal for families or anyone seeking a peaceful setting. It’s also highly walkable, with easy access to downtown, river trails, Queen’s Park, and cultural landmarks like the Festival Theatre
Stratford Central
This walkable, vibrant part of town surrounds downtown and the Avon River. With heritage homes, boutique shops, restaurants, and the renowned Stratford Festival close by, it’s a top choice for those who want to live in the heart of Stratford’s cultural scene.
Forest Road
Located in the northeast end of Stratford, Forest Road is a newer development with contemporary homes and family-friendly streets. Close to schools, parks, and shopping, it’s a growing area perfect for young families and first-time buyers.
Verified Google Reviews
What Our Clients Say
I have worked with Brandy and Tom when searching for properties for their clients. They are a great team and work hard for their clients to make sure they are purchasing a solid investment at good market value. I would highly recommend their services for anyone looking to do a rent to own. They make sure the purchase and terms is in the clients interest and I could not recommend a better company for those looking to get in to the market.
Heather Beauchesne