Should I Buy or Lease?

Here are some tips on how to make the big decision.

Getting a new car is always exciting, but you're always faced with a dilemma.... Should you buy your next vehicle, or does it make more sense to lease? We've done some research, and honestly, the answer depends on your individual driving habits. Watch the video to help you decide whether leasing or buying is the right choice for you or scroll down to read the advantages and disadvantages to either.

Leasing

The Advantages
In certain circumstances buying a new or used vehicle is not a viable option. With a leased vehicle you have substantially lower monthly payments, and if a down payment is necessary, it tends to be minimal. Leasing a vehicle also means that depreciation isn't a concern since you won't have to worry about resale. You also have the luxury of owning a new car every few years.

The Disadvantages
With leasing, you will never escape monthly payments. Depending on what type of lease agreement you have, at the end of your contract, you either turn the keys over to the dealership or finance the remaining value on the car. Another drawback of leasing a vehicle is mileage restrictions. If you go over your allotted miles, you are charged. If you have a job where you are required to travel often, leasing is not the right option for you. Insurance companies tend to charge higher coverage on a leased vehicle as well.

Buying

The Advantages
The greatest advantage of buying a car is one day being free of car payments. Insurance rates are typically lower if you buy a car opposed to leasing one. Plus, if you own your vehicle, you are free to put as many miles on it as you want without penalties or restrictions. Owning your vehicle means you can choose to sell at any time and you do not have to be locked into a set ownership period.

The Disadvantages
Monthly payments are typically higher when you finance a car to own it. When you purchase a vehicle, you also may be required to pay a large down payment, so the initial out-of-pocket cost is higher. Issues with resale may also be a factor when buying a vehicle. When you own your car depreciation is rapid, diminishing the resale value. With extended use, you can also expect repair bills.