
The third party buyout car lease process can be a game-changer for lessees who want to own their vehicle. A third party buyout allows you to purchase the vehicle from the lessor for a predetermined price, known as the residual value.
This process can be completed at the end of the lease, and the benefits are numerous. You can purchase the vehicle at a lower price than its market value, and you'll avoid the hassle of negotiating with the dealer.
The residual value is determined by the lessor and is based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the lease term. For example, if the residual value is $15,000, you can purchase the vehicle for that amount.
This option can be especially beneficial for lessees who have taken good care of their vehicle and want to own it outright.
For your interest: How Does Lease to Own Work Car
Understanding Buyout Options
Your lease contract should detail your lease buyout options and the price, or method for determining the price, that would have to be paid to exercise the lease buyout.
Many finance companies offer drivers lease buyout options they can exercise once their lease is up, sometimes sooner.
You may want to check out other car buying options before deciding to buy out the lease, as you may be able to save money on the same make and model at a different dealership.
To determine if buying out your lease is a sound financial move, consider factors such as the value of the car in its current condition, the mechanical history of the car, and whether you'll have to pay excess mileage charges.
If you return the car to the dealership, you may have to pay fees for excess mileage and wear-and-tear, which could be avoided by buying out the lease.
Discover more: High Mileage Car Lease
What is a Buyout Loan?
A buyout loan is essentially a way to purchase your leased vehicle from the lessor at the end of your lease term. You can find the buyout amount in your lease agreement or by contacting your lease provider.
If this caught your attention, see: What Is a Lease Buyout on a Car
It's a good idea to start thinking about your plans for the end of your lease term three to six months in advance. This allows you to explore your options and make informed decisions.
To determine the buyout amount, review your lease contract or contact your lease provider. For example, with a U.S. Bank auto lease, your purchase-option price is calculated as the residual value (the projected value of the vehicle at the end of the lease) plus a purchase option fee as noted in your lease agreement.
The total payoff amount will also include applicable taxes, fees, and any other outstanding amounts from your lease. To find out your U.S. Bank lease's total payoff amount, call 800-USBANKS (872-2657).
Here are the 5 steps to buying your leased car:
- Determine the buyout amount or purchase price, if available, by looking at your lease and contacting your lessor.
- Evaluate the car's wear, tear, and mileage, and factor in how much (if anything) this could cost you.
- Shop around to see if you can find the same vehicle at a better value elsewhere.
- Apply for financing if needed.
- Follow the lessor’s process for purchasing the vehicle.
Buying Out a Contract
Buying out a contract can be a great option for those who have grown attached to their leased vehicle. You can start thinking about your plans for the end of your lease term three to six months in advance.

To buy out your lease, you'll need to review your lease contract or contact your lease provider to confirm your leased vehicle is eligible for purchase. With a U.S. Bank auto lease, for example, your purchase-option price is calculated as the residual value (the projected value of the vehicle at the end of the lease) plus a purchase option fee as noted in your lease agreement.
The total payoff amount will also include applicable taxes, fees, and any other outstanding amounts from your lease. To find out your U.S. Bank lease's total payoff amount, call 800-USBANKS (872-2657).
You can apply for a lease buyout loan with U.S. Bank, and you don't need to have a U.S. Bank auto lease to apply. The application process is quick and easy, and you could have your decision in minutes.
Here are the steps to apply for a lease buyout loan:
- Apply
- Finalize
- Drive on
Before deciding to buy out your lease, you may want to check out other car buying options. You may be able to save money on the same make and model at a different dealership.
Benefits of Buying Out a Lease
Buying out a lease can be a great option for those who have grown attached to their vehicle. If the buyout amount is lower than the market value of the vehicle, you may pay less to buy out your lease than to purchase a similar vehicle.
You won't have to spend time shopping around for a new car, which can be a huge time-saver. This is especially true if you've already found a car you love.
If there is excess wear and tear, you may not be charged for it, which can be a big relief. This is because the lease agreement often includes a provision for excess wear and tear.
You may not be charged for any mileage you went over, which can be a significant cost savings. This can be a big advantage if you've driven more than the allowed number of miles.
Having the option to buy out your lease can give you peace of mind and allow you to keep a car you love.
Related reading: No Deposit Vehicle Leasing
Lease Agreement and Contract
A third party buyout car lease involves a separate agreement from the original lease contract. This is because the third party is not a party to the original lease agreement.
The third party buyout agreement is a new contract that outlines the terms of the transfer, including the purchase price and any fees associated with the transfer. This agreement is typically negotiated between the third party and the leasing company.
The original lease contract remains in effect until the third party has completed the buyout process and taken possession of the vehicle.
Broaden your view: Transferring Lease of a Car
Lease Agreement Advantages and Disadvantages
Buying a leased car can be a great option, but it's essential to consider the pros and cons before making a decision.
Some people may prefer to continue leasing new vehicles, which can be a convenient and cost-effective option.
However, others may want to explore the possibility of buying a leased car, which can provide long-term savings.
Readers also liked: Turning in a Leased Car for Another Lease
The main advantage of buying a leased car is that you can build equity in the vehicle over time, which can be a valuable asset.
However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider.
Here are some of the key cons of buying a leased car:
- If the buyout amount is higher than the market value, you may be overpaying for the car.
- Financing a lease buyout may come with higher interest rates.
- Excessive wear, tear, and mileage may reduce the value of the vehicle.
- You may end up paying more for the car than you would have if you bought it originally.
What If My Auto Isn’t Through U.S. Bank?
If your auto lease isn't through U.S. Bank, you're not out of luck. We're happy to finance your lease buyout if you qualify, even if you leased your car through a different lender.
A unique perspective: Re Lease Car
The Buyout Process
Review your lease contract or contact your lease provider to confirm your leased vehicle is eligible for purchase. This should be done three to six months in advance of the lease term end.
To find out your U.S. Bank lease's total payoff amount, call 800-USBANKS (872-2657). The total payoff amount will include applicable taxes, fees, and any other outstanding amounts from your lease.
The lease contract should detail your lease buyout options and the price, or method for determining the price, that would have to be paid to exercise the lease buyout.
Can You Finance a Buyout?
You can finance a buyout, and it's a great option to consider. U.S. Bank, for example, offers competitive rates on lease buyout loans, making it a viable choice for those looking to purchase their leased vehicle.
The application process is quick and easy, with some lenders offering decisions in minutes. You'll need to have a few pieces of information ready, such as your lease details and financial history.
Yes, you can finance a lease buyout, and many finance companies offer this option. In fact, U.S. Bank and other lenders have made it possible to buy out your lease with a loan.
To determine if financing a buyout is right for you, consider the factors mentioned in Example 6, such as the car's value, mechanical history, and any excess mileage or wear-and-tear charges. This will help you decide if purchasing the vehicle is a sound financial move.
Here are some options for financing a lease buyout:
- U.S. Bank
- Ally Financial
- Chase Bank
- GM Financial
- Chrysler Capital
- Nissan Financial
- Acura Financial
- BMW Financial
- Honda Financial
Skip Mileage Charges
If you've gone over your allowable mileage per your lease agreement, you can bypass related fees by buying the car.
Buying the car outright is a straightforward way to avoid mileage charges.
If this caught your attention, see: Buy Car off Lease
Considerations and Next Steps
Determine the buyout amount or purchase price, if available, by looking at your lease and contacting your lessor. This will give you a clear idea of what you're getting into.
Evaluate the car's wear, tear, and mileage, and factor in how much (if anything) this could cost you. You may need to pay excess mileage charges or reconditioning fees.
Consider the car's mechanical history and its current value. If the car is in great condition and valued at the same price as the lease buyout, it may be a good idea to purchase it.
Make a list of your options:
- Pay the lease buyout price and keep the car
- Return the car to the dealer and lease a new one
- Buy a similar used car elsewhere
- Shop around for financing options
Compare the costs of each option and consider your financial situation. You may want to use an auto loan calculator to help you decide.
Don't forget to check your lease contract for details on your lease buyout options and the price or method for determining the price. Your leasing company may also communicate with you about your lease-end options.
You might enjoy: Residual Price Lease Car
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take over someone's car lease payments?
To take over someone's car lease payments, you'll need to go through an application process and credit check, assuming you're approved to assume responsibility for the remaining payments and insurance.
Sources
- https://www.self.inc/blog/what-happens-at-the-end-of-car-lease
- https://autos.yahoo.com/considering-lease-buyout-learn-everything-110000365.html
- https://www.chase.com/personal/auto/education/leasing/lease-to-own-car
- https://www.usbank.com/vehicle-loans/auto-loans/auto-leasing/lease-buyout.html
- https://viplease.com/buy-outs-convert-ny-nj-ct-lease-to-financing/
Featured Images: pexels.com