Skyline Investors announced it has acquired Buddy’s Home Furnishings, positioning the transaction as a new ownership chapter for the rent-to-own retailer and franchisor and a source of flexible capital to support Buddy’s network of more than 220 locations. The buyer described Buddy’s as the third-largest rent-to-own franchisor in the U.S. and said the company operates across 18 states and in Guam.
Buddy’s provides furniture, appliances, and home goods through sales and rental-ownership options, serving consumers seeking accessible household solutions. The company was recently recognized as No. 276 in Entrepreneur’s Franchise Top 500 for 2025, according to the announcement.
Skyline said the investment was structured alongside Standard Communities co-founders and principals Jeffrey Jaeger and Scott Alter, citing their experience in affordable housing development, capital formation, balance sheet management, and strategic growth as complementary to Buddy’s mission. The parties said the partnership is intended to ensure Buddy’s is well-capitalized to pursue growth, innovation, and long-term value creation.
Skyline said it plans to focus on franchise health and operational improvements with a long-term, collaborative approach, and pointed to prior rent-to-own investing experience, including Majik Rent-to-Own, as relevant industry context. The firm also said it is actively seeking investments in underserved businesses across healthcare, consumer and business services, technology, and domestic manufacturing.
KEY QUOTES
“This is an exciting new chapter for Buddy’s. Skyline brings a collaborative mindset that our franchisees and customers will feel immediately. Their flexible approach and ability to move quickly allowed them to structure a solution that worked for us when others couldn’t. We’re not just changing ownership; we’re gaining committed partners who understand our business, value our franchise network, and are ready to invest in our collective success.”
Michael Bennett, Chief Executive Officer, Buddy’s Home Furnishings
“Our collaboration with Skyline on this deal reflects our confidence in their creative approach to investing. By working together, we’re able to bring flexible capital solutions to businesses that strengthen the communities they serve. We look forward to this next phase for Buddy’s and its franchisees.”
Jeffrey Jaeger, Co-Founder and Principal, Standard Communities
“Buddy’s represents exactly the type of platform opportunity we’re built to support. With Buddy’s proven brand and strong franchise network, there’s a clear runway for growth. We’re excited to roll up our sleeves alongside the management team and franchisees to strengthen operations, support local owners with focus on their profitability, and invest in the next chapter of the business.”
Kevin Tom, Founder and Managing Partner, Skyline Investors
