Department | New Car Loans

Leasing Questions to Ask

When it comes to buying or leasing, there is no right answer. The right choice will depend on what works best for you. But when you decide to lease, you need to make sure you get the best deal you can. That means you must ask the leasing agent all the right questions, and get the right answers. The following are some essential leasing questions you need to ask.

How Long Is the Lease?

This is the most obvious question. You need to know how long the lease is because you need to know how long you will have to pay for the vehicle. There is not a common length for leasing. The term can range anywhere from 24-60 months. Some leasese also have unconventional terms, like 22 months. Make sure you are certain of the length of your lease.

Can My Lease Be Extended?

You may want to keep this car for a longer period than your lease. You may be able to keep it or you might have to return it, depending on the terms of your lease. Normally, you can keep your lease going on a monthly basis for the same price.

What Payments Do I Make When I Sign?

You might find that you have to pay a lot of fees when you sign. This is something you should be aware of when you shop around for the best leasing agent. You might have to pay a security deposit, title fees, signing fees, registration fees, and other charges. Just know that you will need to pay money when you sign.

What Do I Do at the End of My Lease?

There are two types of leases. First, you might have a closed-end lease. You return the car when the lease is up, pay whatever is due, and then walk away. You could also buy the car and pay the difference. But you may end up paying more for this deal because the dealer will look at the wear on the car and the residual value. Alternatively, you might have an open-end lease. Your payments will be lower on this lease. The leasing agent will estimate the residual value of the car. At the end of the lease, if the car is not worth the estimated value, then you will be responsible for making up the difference.

Is It Possible to Lease a Used Car?

Yes, but know that the used car has lost a lot of its value. This can be good because you do not have to take the risk, but you may run another risk. That risk is leasing a vehicle that is too old. Your payments will be lower, but you need to do your research to maximize the benefits.

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