A new rent-to-own housing model offers expats a path to homeownership in Czechia

You’ve finally found your dream home. You’re financially stable and ready to commit, but short on cash and stuck waiting on slow bank approvals. This is a common frustration for many expats in Czechia, especially as property prices continue to rise.

Until now, options were limited. But a new rent-to-own product called MOOY, backed by Broker Trust (the country’s largest mortgage mediator), is giving hopeful homeowners a second chance, whether bank requirements, tax complications, or residency issues have blocked them.

MOOY offers two products. The first, BUDE MOOY, is aimed at people who want to buy a property but face difficulties getting a loan.

“BUDE MOOY solves the problem faced by clients—often expats—who don’t have a straightforward path to homeownership,” says Petr Klimša, MOOY’s Chief Operating Officer. “We buy the property on their behalf, they move in right away, and pay rent while working toward eventual ownership.”

Clients sign a contract with a fixed buyout price, which increases annually, though in a rising market, locking in a price today may be a smart long-term move. Once clients resolve the issue that stopped them from getting a mortgage—whether it’s gaining permanent residency, starting a new job, or building up a financial record—they can buy the home from MOOY.

MOOY’s application process takes just 10 minutes, and unlike traditional lenders, the company considers a fuller financial picture. They’re particularly supportive of those early in their careers, like an IT specialist with strong future earning potential.

Most MOOY clients already have a specific property in mind and typically buy within two years. Properties must be in good condition, and monthly payments are tailored to individual cash flow. Clients provide a deposit—usually 10–15 percent of the property’s value—far lower than the 20 percent many banks demand.

A pre-agreed fee is deducted from the deposit if a client chooses not to buy. “It’s all transparent from day one,” Klimša emphasizes.

One client shared: “I found my dream apartment, but couldn’t get a mortgage immediately. Thanks to MOOY, I moved in immediately, rented it while sorting my paperwork, and later bought the flat. Without it, I’d have missed the opportunity.”

MOOY’s second product, JE MOOY, is designed for people who already own property but need to free up cash quickly and flexibly.

“It’s especially useful in emergencies, when banks aren’t an option,” says Klimša.

Whether someone is facing debt, navigating a divorce, or funding a business, JE MOOY offers an alternative. MOOY buys the property, giving the client immediate cash. Later, they can repurchase their home under clear, fixed conditions—or sell in cooperation with MOOY for added benefit.

“It’s a lifeline during inheritance disputes, mortgage troubles, or major life changes,” Klimša says.

With Czech households now spending record portions of their income on mortgage payments, homeownership feels out of reach for many. But as interest rates begin to fall and wages rise, Klimša believes a shift is coming.

“After a year of stagnation, property prices are climbing again. That makes BUDE MOOY especially attractive now in a rising market.”

International clients, he says, value MOOY’s professionalism and speed. Another satisfied customer shared:

Whether you’re an expat looking to put down roots or a homeowner needing cash, MOOY offers a unique, flexible solution. It’s more than a rental—it’s a stepping stone to the stability and security of owning a home.