I'm coming up on the end of a lease on my 2000 Outback next month. I'm trying to decide if it makes better financial sense to purchase the car at that time, or to turn it in and start afresh with yet another lease. I should say upfront that I'm not the pride-of-ownership type -- renter vs. owner mentality -- but I don't want that to cloud sound fiscal choices.
Any suggestions on how to proceed to make this decision? There are quite a few variables I can see coming into play here. Any way to simplify the anaysis?
Perhaps it boils down to this: If I can get the same or better deal (i.e., monthly payment, based on mileage allowance, downpayment, etc.) that I have on this lease, why not go for a new lease? It certainly eliminates the unknowns of vehicle repair, etc., that go with ownership.
I can provide more specific details (payments/mileage/etc.) if that helps, but for now I thought I'd lob the broader question out to you all first.
Thanks in advance for your suggestions, Liz