Most seller notes are characterized by a maturity term of around 3 to 7 years, with an interest rate ranging from 6% to 10%. Because of the fact that seller notes are unsecured debt instruments, the interest rate tends to be higher to reflect the greater risk.
How Does Seller Financing Work? A bank isn't involved in a seller-financed sale; the buyer and seller make the arrangements themselves. They draw up a promissory note setting out the interest rate, the schedule of payments from buyer to seller, and the consequences should the buyer default on those obligations.
Is owner finance a good option? Owner finance can be a good option for borrowers who have very little credit score to seek housing loans from banks. However, one must be very careful while purchasing land with owner financing as failure to repay the debt amount can lead to loss of ownership and the entire amount.
There is a type of seller financing called a Land Contract where the seller actually maintains ownership and the buyer has an interest in the property while making payments to the seller. Once all payments are made, title is then transferred to the buyer.