The procedure in such suit and the investment of the proceeds of sale shall be in accordance with §§ 8.01-73, 8.01-75 and 8.01-76, so far as the same can be made applicable, and the court may, in its discretion, commute the life estate according to § 55.1-500. In the case of a lease, however, the rents may be made payable direct to the person or persons entitled thereto, for the time being.