How to : Decide ---- LEASE or BUY (car/truck)

Car dealers are in free fall, you're short on money, your old "clunker" has been sitting on concrete blocks in your driveway so long, neighborhood kids are using it for graffiti codes and you really do need a nice car. Dr. Evans to the rescue - again.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. It actually does make more sense leasing, but after you weigh the good, the bad, the ugly, who knows which direction you'll take. I leased my first car years ago - new Camry - I'll never do it again. When my three years was up, the car was in very good condition (few minor dings) but when I returned it to the dealership, they went over the car like they were operating on Brad Pitt.

2. But, with new car deals flooding the market like fleas on a dog, you might score a nice deal - but trust...then verify.
   Now, here's the good news: low monthly payments, little or no money upfront if you visit the right "anxious to deal" dealer, no serious credit checks (600 FICO works) and you won't have to leave your shirt or first born child with the dealer as collateral.

3. Now, the bad news: Finance charges are always higher with leases. It's more expensive to lease over the long haul. Depreciation after the lease term might kill you and mileage requirements (12,000/15,000 year) is bad news especially if the dealer charges you .30 cents for every mile over the limit. And don't get me started on the small, minor "dings" on the hood or top. Buy if you can.........lease if you can't.

Tips & Warnings

• Before you sign any paperwork, tell the dealer you want to take the contract home and review it before signing. They'll balk, but you hold all the cards. They will eventually......cave in.