Removing decals with a lease

[cobalt_praetorian]

Well, the market did take a shit in the last several years, lol. Actually triggered the RV protection offered by leases back in 21.

Yeah. My '21 was underwater last month. Ouch. And I waited 17 weeks to get her! :'(

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[cobalt_praetorian]

Some of my best deals have been leases…cheaper than buying outright without depreciation risk…but a lessee must thoroughly understand how leases work. If a lessee doesn’t understand the implications of money factor, residual value, capitalized cost reduction, termination fee, gap coverage, and lease inception fee they should not remotely consider a lease; they will get screwed. Also high mileage drivers should never consider a lease.

I’ve never had a bad lease…but I am knowledgeable and highly selective about what I have leased. I don’t lease my Wrangler for two reasons, the lease deals have been terrible and leasing something you’re going to modify does not work…it’s prohibited by the lease.

If I am able to negotiate a great lease deal I look at it this way: for the price of a lease inception fee and potentially a termination/turn in fee, I am able to decide after three years if I want to buy the vehicle at residual value or walk away. If there’s potential equity I will purchase. If depreciation is greater than expected l, the car has been in reliable, or it’s been in an accident or damaged and repaired, I walk.

Another note…new cars in general are terrible investments. I will not borrow or lease anything unless I have the cash to purchase outright. The decision to lease/borrow for me is about preserving capital while minimizing depreciation exposure.

Another excellent analysis. Well said!