Leasing is the process through which a leaseholder and a property owner agree and sign a contract detailing terms and the period of payment of a property. On the other hand, buying refers to money in exchange for a service or property. Therefore, when deciding which best suits you, it is essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each option and analyze your needs to obtain maximum benefit.
Advantages of Leasing
• Leasing saves the lessee the cost for initial investment, which may be too much. In addition, these payments are flexible since the leasing fee is spread throughout a given time. This process allows individuals to plan for finances and gradually settle the charges.
• Leasing allows a company or an individual to acquire the right to use a high-quality asset that would otherwise be expensive or unaffordable.
• The lessee avoids the cost of repair or upgrades which come with property ownership. With the changing technologies, most assets are at risk of becoming obsolete. The leaseholder can easily upgrade to better equipment without incurring loss or disposing of the previous property in leasing.
Disadvantages of Leasing
• If the intention of leasing is the acquisition of property, it proves expensive in the long run.
• A breach of contract, which includes termination of a lease before maturity, attracts a penalty for the lessee.
• The lessee does not own the property. As such, not possible to make any alterations to the property or asset. Additionally, the leaseholder does not enjoy the benefits of asset appreciation.
Advantages of Buying
• When you buy an asset or property, you acquire ownership rights. Therefore, it is easy to customize an item to serve your current needs, sell it for money or exchange it for a service or another property. Further, you can lease or hire it out for profit.
• Purchasing an item is cheaper since there are no installments that add to expenses.
Disadvantages of Buying
• Buying requires up-front payment. Some items may be too expensive hence distorting your financial plans.
• If the property depreciates or becomes obsolete, you will have to bear the loss since you are the owner.
Which Path Suits You?
Buying and leasing have their merits and demerits. However, there are some instances where the benefit of one overrides the other. Such include:
• The length of time you require equipment or property. If the item of purchase has a long useful life, buying will be a better option.
• Quality of the item. Should you want to use a property or equipment that is relatively too expensive to afford, it would be wise to get a lease.
• The individual’s or company’s budget. If the cash at hand allows you to make a purchase, buying the item makes it cheaper in the long run. However, if the cost will harm your financial plans, leasing is a good decision.
• When deciding whether to buy or lease, always consider the effectiveness, cost implications, and cash at hand and your needs. Also, consult a financial expert so that you make an informed decision.
Based on these circumstances, your current situation will always determine the best option to pick.
