Lease-to-own (LTO) lets a buyer pay for a domain in monthly installments and receive ownership after the final payment. It opens premium names to startups that can't pay the full price up front, and it often closes deals sellers would otherwise lose. Use this calculator to see payments for every term at a glance.
How to use the Lease-to-Own Calculator
- Enter the domain price.
- Optionally set a down payment.
- Review payments, markups and totals for each term.
- Copy the table into your listing or proposal.
How it works
BetterNic's lease markups are 0% for 12 months, 10% for 24, 20% for 36, 25% for 48 and 30% for 60 months, applied to the financed amount. The buyer gets use of the domain from the first payment; ownership transfers after the last. If payments stop, the domain stays with the seller.
When to use it
- Pricing lease options on listings
- Negotiating with a buyer who can't pay in full
- Comparing outright purchase with lease costs
Pro tips
- Ask for a down payment of 10–20% on long terms to reduce default risk.
- Keep the domain at a registrar you control until the final payment.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns the domain during a lease?
The seller (or the escrow/custody provider) holds it until the final payment; the buyer has the right to use it.
What happens if the buyer stops paying?
Under typical LTO terms, the seller keeps the payments received and the domain.
Can I pay off a lease early?
Most lease agreements allow early payoff of the remaining balance.