landlord.

When entering into a lease-option agreement, both parties typically have some level of flexibility. The tenant has the option to purchase the property at the end of the lease term, while the landlord has the flexibility to choose whether or not to sell the property. However, of the two parties, the landlord typically has the least amount of flexibility in a lease-option agreement.

The reason for this lack of flexibility is due to the fact that the landlord is the one who ultimately owns the property. The tenant may be able to choose whether or not to exercise their option to buy, but the landlord cannot simply choose to terminate the lease-option agreement or sell the property to someone else unless certain conditions are met.

For example, in most lease-option agreements, the tenant is required to pay a non-refundable option fee upfront. This fee gives the tenant the right to buy the property at the end of the lease term, but it also gives the landlord the assurance that the tenant is serious about their intention to purchase the property. If the tenant decides not to exercise their option to buy, the landlord gets to keep the option fee.

Additionally, the lease-option agreement will usually specify a purchase price for the property at the end of the lease term. This price may be fixed or it may be based on a formula or appraisal. Regardless of the method used to determine the purchase price, the landlord may not be able to sell the property for a higher price if the tenant decides to exercise their option to buy.

Furthermore, the landlord may be required to make certain repairs or improvements to the property during the lease term in order to maintain its value. While the tenant may be responsible for routine maintenance and repairs, the landlord may be obligated to make more significant repairs or upgrades if necessary. This can limit the landlord`s ability to use the property as they see fit during the lease term.

Overall, while both parties in a lease-option agreement have some level of flexibility, the landlord typically has the least amount of flexibility due to their ownership of the property. However, the benefits of entering into a lease-option agreement may outweigh any limitations on the landlord`s flexibility, as it can provide them with a steady stream of rental income while also potentially securing a future sale of the property.