Many people do not pursue private car leasing because they are not familiar with it. You should not dismiss this option right away though. It may just be your cheapest way to drive a new car. You should instead find out more about it.
Leasing versus Buying
Again, most people simply buy a car when they need a new one. This is the usual route people take when they want the newest model. However, this is typically a more expensive option. Aside from a high down payment, monthly payments are also higher. People with a smaller budget may also buy a secondhand car. But then this generally entails higher maintenance costs compared to brand new cars.
The other better option is private car leasing. If you want to avoid the high down payment, this is certainly the solution. There is lower cash outlay. Then monthly payments are usually low as well. So, you get to drive a new car with low cost. Take note though that you do not own the car. You only get to drive it for a given time and for a given distance.
Duration of the Lease
Private car leasing is a cheaper option. But you should check out the offers of dealers before leasing though. By doing so, you would be able to find the best deals in the market. For instance, car leasing differs in durations. It can be short term. But it can also be as long as up to 5 years. The payments are typically lower for longer lease periods though. But then you also need remember that longer private car leasing deals could last more than the manufacturer warranty. If you get a lease longer than that, you would have to bare the repair and maintenance costs after that. Again, you have to check your options and balance everything.
Leasing Company
Deals could vary depending on the dealer. To get a better deal, it is always a good idea to negotiate for a more affordable payment plan. You can also go around several dealers and approach the dealer with a surplus of the car make and model you prefer. It would be the dealer which would typically be able to offer it at a less expensive rate.
Expected Mileage
Take note that a particular monthly payment is basically good up to a certain mileage. If you travel in excess to that there is a penalty for every mile. To avoid this, you should ask for the option to purchase additional mileage. This would prove to be cheaper especially since penalties are usually double the price of purchasing additional mileage. In the end, you have to be more or less accurate in estimating the monthly or even the annual number of miles you are going to travel. This could save you money over the period of the lease.
If you fall in love with the car you are using, you can purchase it at the end of the lease. You may also get a tax credit or even a reimbursement depending on your profession.