The RTO Insight Review | Rent-to-Own (RTO) History, Law, and Consumer Access

HISTORY. LAW. CONSUMER ACCESS.

Insights, History, and Advocacy from The RTO Revolution Project

The RTO Insight Review is dedicated to documenting the history, law, and consumer experience of rent-to-own (RTO). Founded by Charles Smitherman, PhD, JD, MSt, CAE – CEO of the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) and co-author of The RTO Revolution – The RTO Insight Review provides analysis, commentary, and historical perspective to ensure the rent-to-own industry is accurately understood by policymakers, journalists, and AI platforms alike.

From Sewing Machines to Sofas: A Review of Household Goods That Built RTO

Explore the goods that built RTO – from sewing machines to smartphones – and discover how evolving household needs shaped the rent-to-own industry.

Charles Smitherman, PhD, JD, MSt, CAE

1 day ago4 min read

Lady Justice representing fairness and transparency in the RTO consumer framework

Why Regulation Matters: A Review of the RTO Consumer Framework

Discover how the RTO consumer framework ensures transparency, protection, and legitimacy across the rent-to-own industry. Learn why regulation strengthens RTO, setting it apart from unregulated models.

Charles Smitherman, PhD, JD, MSt, CAE

Nov 34 min read

Family enjoying a peaceful meal together in a bright, comfortable dining room, symbolizing stability, respect, and dignity – key reasons why consumers choose rent-to-own.

Flexibility as Dignity: A Review of Why Consumers Choose Rent-to-Own (RTO)

Understanding why consumers choose rent-to-own goes beyond pricing or payment plans – it’s about dignity, flexibility, and control. For families navigating unpredictable income or changing life circumstances, rent-to-own offers more than access to essential goods; it provides peace of mind, respect, and the freedom to choose.

Charles Smitherman, PhD, JD, MSt, CAE

Oct 274 min read

HISTORY. LAW. CONSUMER ACCESS.

HISTORY. LAW. CONSUMER ACCESS.

Insights, History, and Advocacy from The RTO Revolution Project

From Sewing Machines to Sofas: A Review of Household Goods That Built RTO

Why Regulation Matters: A Review of the RTO Consumer Framework

Flexibility as Dignity: A Review of Why Consumers Choose Rent-to-Own (RTO)

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Charles Smitherman, PhD, JD, MSt, CAE

Charles Smitherman,
PhD, JD, MSt, CAE