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How to buy house from my landlord with no money down?

I am renting a house that I'd like to buy. The landlord has a mortgage on the house. I don't have enough money to come up with a down payment. Is there a legal and safe way to buy the house from the landlord and finance it through him for a period of time? If the landlord cannot payoff the mortgage without selling the house first, is there a way for me to be the owner of the house, finance through the landloard, who then finances through his mortgage company? Is this legal to do and is there a way to protect yourself if it can be setup this way?

Public Comments

1. The landlord would have to pay off the existing loan and carry the papers on the new loan. It isn't going to happen.
2. Maybe, but it's a sucker's bet. You would contract with your landlord to sell you the home after you pay rent for a period of time. Of course, you will fail to perform in some fashion and the landlord will scotch the deal, rip up the contract, and keep your years of money.
3. Safe, yes with the aid of a good real estate Atty who will know how to draw up the legally binding contracts. 100% safe, no because the house will have to stay in the LL's name until you refi into your own. You would not get the tax benefits since the original and only legal mortgage is the one the bank holds. Then you have to be afraid they will find out and call the mortgage due and payable. As long as the LL's mortgage company is involved you really have no legal interest in the property.
4. See if you could do a Contract For Deed. Consult a Real Estate attorney before you sign any papers.
5. look up land contract.