Sometimes, leasing a car is a more viable option than buying. Maybe you only need a car for a few years due to a job reassignment. Perhaps you have not saved up much of a down payment, but you need a car right away. Sometimes, leasing makes the most financial sense at the time. However, like with any major purchase, it is important to get the best value. You’ll want to shop around to find the best deals. Then, it is time to negotiate.
When leasing a car, it is important to do your homework. Narrow down the possibilities of the types of cars you would like to lease. One you have selected a few different makes and models, you can begin looking at aspects such as resale value, which will be important later, and availability of leasing options. Once you are armed with this information, it is time to head to the dealership.
Prices that are negotiable
Lease price: This is based on the current value of the car, and the estimated resale value at the end of three years, the length of time for most leases. Because you researched that information previously, you may be able to counter the dealership’s offer, resulting in a lower price.
The down payment: If you’ve got excellent credit, a lease can be made with little to no down payment. Even if your credit is not outstanding, you should negotiate the down payment down as far as possible.
Parts of the lease that are not negotiable
Acquisition fees: These fees are usually not negotiable. This is a fee that you pay to begin the lease.
Disposition fee: If you choose not to purchase the vehicle at the end of the lease period, dealers will charge a fee to clean the vehicle for resale purposes.
Sometimes, the buyout price of the vehicle can be negotiated at the end of the lease period. However, potential buyers will usually pay close to the residual value of the vehicle.
It is important to understand the negotiable and non-negotiable factors when buying or leasing a new car. There will always be room for negotiation in some aspects of leasing or buying a car. Prices are fluid and always changing. Fees and rates are hard to negotiate. They are set well before you walk into the dealership, and some of those costs, such as sales taxes, are completely out of the dealers’ hands. Fees are standard between buyers and often will not be lowered.
Negotiating a price with a dealer is common. If you give it a shot, you just might be able to save yourself a buck or two.
