Lease purchase financing - Rent first to be able to buy later

Another option would actually be that I take over his loan (offset against the purchase price). The interest rates are then of course very high from back then. And the bank would have to cooperate. Does anyone see any extreme disadvantages for me with this option?

Are you sure he doesn't want to sell because of the loan?

No, because of a separation. Is a neighbor of a very good acquaintance.

Why does it only work in 2017 and not immediately?

He still has a loan on the house running until the end of 2017. If he wants to get out of it, he just has to pay compensation to the bank.

Then just suggest that you split the compensation between you. He doesn't have to pay taxes on his rental income and you get the house immediately. The compensation can't be much with only one year left.