What is Leasing?

Leasing is simply another way to finance a vehicle. When you lease, the lessor retains ownership while you make fixed payments over a set period. At the end of the lease, you return the vehicle within the agreed mileage limits and normal wear and tear. Any excess mileage or damage may result in additional charges. You also have the option to purchase the vehicle at its residual value when the lease ends.

While businesses have long used leasing to finance buildings, equipment, and vehicles, personal vehicle leasing is still a relatively new and sometimes confusing concept for consumers. Our goal is to simplify the process so that by the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident in understanding how leasing works and whether it’s the right choice for you.

Why has leasing become popular?

  • In the mid 1980s, the government imposed “Luxury Tax Limitations” on the write-off of business use vehicles. The tax laws began to favor leasing in many situations.

  • In the late 1980s, the government eliminated the tax deduction for interest on vehicle loans. This increased the cost of ownership.

  • Savvy consumers began to realize that there were better uses of their cash than investing in a depreciating asset such as a car.

  • A lease payment is typically smaller than the payment for the purchase of the same vehicle. In a lease, you pay only for the value of the vehicle used during the lease. Under a purchase agreement, you would pay for the entire vehicle, regardless of the amount of use or final value.

  • Businesses and individuals have been attracted to leasing because no cash investment is required. A lease usually asks for a small refundable security deposit and the first month’s lease payment, with no down payment. Licensing and registration are simplified and, as the vehicle is “turned in” at the end of the lease, there is an easy disposal of the old vehicle.

  • As the cost of vehicles has continued to increase, people oftentimes couldn’t afford the loan payment on the vehicle of their choice and turned to leasing with its lower payments. However, we always discourage customers from acquiring more car than they can afford.

Who should lease?

Leasing offers numerous benefits for both individuals and businesses. While it may not suit everyone, it’s often a smart choice.

Traditionally seen as a business tool, leasing was once thought to be complex. In reality, it’s simple and beneficial for individuals too. Businesses lease to conserve cash, improve financial planning, and keep capital free for other needs. With no down payment required, lease payments are often tax-deductible and don’t impact credit lines.

Individuals also benefit from lower payments, no down payment, and an easier vehicle turnover. Even for personal use, leasing provides affordability and flexibility, while business use allows for significant tax deductions.