My first Option to Purchase Agreement was typed by hand on white bond paper, and said exactly what the seller and I agreed to. We both signed it and it became a legal contract. But I would never do that again.
Each state has a way they treat Purchase Options. Make sure it is called an Option to Purchase--no other name--cause they mean slightly different things and are handled differently. You are not purchasing the actual trailer--till you are at the closing table! Initially you only buy an option to purchase the trailer. The option shd say you have the sole right to purchase the trailer for a period if time(1 or 2 yrs, from date this to date that). It shd state a fixed purchase price,(if bought within those dates)even tho the item may appreciate (not likely but it is a standard phrase), and it shd state the condition of the unit, and repairs needed, who make the repairs, or "as is," or any other thing that the buyer and seller agree to, like payments and interest.
If this trailer is being sold by someone who had read Lonnie Scrogg's "Deals on Wheels" or other books, be aware that the seller may hit you up for 13-16% interest on the remaining ballance. ASK "Is this a Lonnie-type deal?" Make sure you don't just agree to the monthly payment amount without knowing how much of that payment is interest , and the rate!
--140.140.xx.x