Leasing Tips

As you call dealerships to locate the exact car you want to buy, you can also test drive the car salesman. In other words, you can determine if this is a person you want to do business with. It's a good idea to consider this issue ahead of time, before you get to the deal-making phase of the lease process.

To evaluate the salesperson, ask yourself if you feel comfortable dealing with him. Is he impatient and pushy? Or relaxed and open? When you asked him about a specific car's availability, did he respond to your needs? Or did he try to steer you toward another car simply because his dealership has too many of that model in stock? Does he return your phone calls? Does he answer your questions about leasing in a straightforward manner? Or is he evasive and confusing?

By considering these issues, you should have a sense of whether you want to lease a car with this salesperson's assistance. If you feel comfortable with the individual when researching by phone, and if the dealership has the car you're interested in, set up a time to test drive the car. Preferably, when the dealership will not be very busy, such as on a weekday morning. Before heading to the car lot, review all your notes and make sure you bring your car-buying folder. This might include your checkbook, registration and proof of insurance. Keep in mind that you're bringing these items so you'll be ready to lease a car if you get a fair deal. Don't feel obligated to lease a car simply because you have all the necessary paperwork with you.

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