[poundwise]

I think most people would be surprised at how closely most furniture stores buy-now, pay-later programs are to the rent-to-own places. When the interest rate kicks in at 20%, you'll pay $2600 for $1800 worth of furniture easily. Rent-to-own is not a good option, but its likely no worse than some other forms of credit/loans for such items.

One positive thing about the rental places is that you can get something you need or want for the short-term. That is, not rent-to-own, just rent.