I didn't even think I was disagreeing with you, more or less just taking an interest in the psychology involved in buying and selling. I thought maybe we had a brief interchange on email before (?).

I actually think you're right about buying a new car, despite having to make payments. The good thing is, interest rates are low, and there are some decent values for less than thirty grand. And appropriately safe ones as well. And if you have driving habits that fit into a lease, that might be a really good avenue to pursue since you won't have the time come when your car becomes unreliable because of age.

With that peace of mind, you'll be able to avoid being plagued with the problems that could crop up, and if they had been caused by this or that. I might not be the expert with the most experience when it comes to used cars, but I have a GREAT deal of expertise with used cars on the retail and wholesale side. The fact of the matter is, most used cars have a history, and some of it isn't exactly what you would want to see. There are cars that are virtually perfect and have had no expense spared, but they're in the minority. If you happen to come across one it might be a good buy for the peace of mind it would offer.

The only problem you'll have with a new car is, what if someone piles it up in three or four months, or a year, or two. Do you dump it? Will you take the bath when the dealer or private party says, no way, it's been hit? Would you pay the early termination fee on the lease? Or will you have it "Restored" to "factory new condition" and then rest assured that it's "like new"?

I'm not saying any of this in an antagonistic fashion--but it's what I've seen people say before. That's a very realistic concern, and one to prepare for. I think we've all probably been hit somewhere, somehow, when we weren't expecting it. When you go to sell it, what do you say?

Then again, I don't know many honest people who sell cars. I am honest, but I can afford to keep cars as they should be kept, and take care of the necessary upgrades, repairs, and parts. So for me it's easy to say, the car is ready to go. For others, there is the expense angle, and they don't want to sacrifice thousands of dollars because they told someone what they didn't want to hear. It's just one of those things you have to figure on, when you buy a used car.

The most important thing for you is to find a new car that suits all of your criteria. You'll be a busy guy; now get back to shopping!

And thanks for the response.
--
1992 940 wagon, 72k
make people envious; smile frequently.