The short answer is yes, but only if you can get a great deal on the lease and the payoff amount. Here are the steps to determine the profitability and if it makes more sense to buy the car rather than lease.
5 minutes
04.10.2023
Car ownership can be a daunting and expensive endeavor, and for some, leasing may be the more feasible choice. But there’s also an option other than making a firm decision: first lease and then buy a car. To help you find out if this is the path you should take, consider the following factors and the pros and cons. Read on to find out why sometimes, buying outright might be a better choice in the long term. Plus, learn about another option: a car subscription, which gives you flexibility (as short as six to 12 month terms) and less stress (maintenance, roadside assistance and insurance are all included in one monthly fee).
See if you pre-qualify for a FINN car subscription in seconds with no impact to your credit score and receive a $100 voucher.
Leasing allows for easy access to a vehicle over a set period (typically six months to three years) through a simple monthly payment. At the end of the lease term, you can either hand the vehicle back or purchase it.
Unlike owning a car, you never truly own a vehicle during a lease. However, it does offer flexibility and more affordable options for those who want to avoid owning a car. Ultimately, the decision to lease a vehicle is based on your individual circumstances and leasing then buying your next car could be a viable option.
If you have recently passed your driving test exam or want to experience the freedom of having access to a vehicle, then leasing a car may be for you. Here’s why:
However, there are a few downsides to car leasing aside from not being the registered owner of the car:
For an alternative to leasing that also includes its pros and minimizes its cons, check out a FINN car subscription.
At the end of a lease, it may be worth considering buying the vehicle and becoming its official owner. It’s one thing to become familiar with and fall in love with the car you have been using for the duration of the lease. But there are other factors that you should consider:
The residual value is the estimated value of the car at the end of the lease term. If the car's residual value is lower than its actual value, buying it at the end of the lease may not be a good financial decision. However, if the car's residual value is higher than its actual value, buying it can be a good deal.
If the leased car is in good condition and you have been maintaining it well, it may be a good idea to buy it at the end of the lease. On the other hand, if the car has significant wear and tear or damage, it may not be worth the cost to buy it.
When buying a leased car, there may be additional costs, such as a purchase fee, taxes and registration fees. If you are at the end of your lease, you should factor these costs into your decision-making process.
You should consider your financing options when deciding whether to buy your leased car. If it’s possible to secure a low-interest loan or pay cash, buying the car may make sense. However, if the financing options are not favorable, buying the car may not be a good financial decision.
You should consider your long-term plans for the car when deciding whether to buy it. If you plan to keep the car for several years, buying it may make more sense than leasing a new car. On the other hand, if you plan to upgrade to a newer car in the near future, buying the leased car may not be a good decision.
Leasing a car can be a financially viable option in certain circumstances, such as:
Ultimately, the decision to lease then buy a car depends on your unique situation, and you should weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
Leasing offers lower monthly payments and greater flexibility, while owning a car outright provides more long-term financial benefits.
If you're looking for a short-term solution and aren't sure about your long-term transportation needs, leasing may be the best option for you. However, if you plan to keep the car for a long time, buying outright may be the better choice.
Leasing and then buying a car can be a profitable option if you get a great deal on the lease and payoff amount. However, if you're not able to negotiate a good lease deal or don't plan to keep the car long-term, it may not be the best financial decision. Always do your research and consider all factors before making a decision.
FINN provides an easy car leasing experience with everything included in one monthly payment. Order online and have it delivered directly to your doorstep.
It comes with zero down payment, insurance, registration, maintenance and protection against depreciation. And you have the option of 6 to 12 month leases on a variety of vehicles, including EVs. Browse a range of cars today for a hassle-free car leasing experience.
1. Choose your perfect car
Pick your next car and select the term and mileage package that’s right for you.
2. Get approved in a few clicks
Submit your information and get approved in under five minutes.
3. Delivery straight to your home
Schedule for FINN to deliver your new car at a convenient date so you can focus on the road ahead.
4. Just hit the road and swap when you’re done
All that’s left to do is drive. When your term is over, you can return the car and pick out something new, or simply walk away.
1. Choose your perfect car
Pick your next car and select the term and mileage package that’s right for you.
2. Get approved in a few clicks
Submit your information and get approved in under five minutes.
3. Delivery straight to your home
Schedule for FINN to deliver your new car at a convenient date so you can focus on the road ahead.
4. Just hit the road and swap when you’re done
All that’s left to do is drive. When your term is over, you can return the car and pick out something new, or simply walk away.