[turbo6bar]

I see a little upside and a lot of downside.

If he's out of work, assuming he's not independently wealthy, he's not in a position to trade labor. They need flexibility and fixed expenses. What if the husband gets a job in another county? Renting gives flexibility. Later, they can buy a house.

If you work past the issues, consider their income. Can they handle the rent easily? Check the credit report.

Lastly, if you are not interested in the legal hassle of terminating the lease/option and kicking them out, you shouldn't enter the agreement.

I realize selling a house isn't easy these days, but be careful. Don't make someone else's problems your own.