What is it called when you make periodic payments to a landlord for the use of their property?

The practice of making periodic payments to a landlord for the use of their property is referred to as renting or leasing. This arrangement allows individuals to occupy residential or commercial properties without the need to purchase them outright. The terms of the rental or lease agreement specify the duration of occupancy, the amount paid each period, and other conditions, such as maintenance responsibilities.

In contrast, buying involves purchasing the property outright, while a down payment is typically a percentage of the total cost paid upfront when buying a home. A security deposit, on the other hand, is an upfront payment intended to cover potential damages or unpaid rent, which is separate from the regular payments made during the rental period. The term renting or leasing encapsulates the concept of periodic payments to a landlord, making it the correct response.