Before moving forward to discussed about the what is advantages of leasing? We have to understand first what it is lease?
Leasing is a financial arrangement in which one party, known as the lessor, permits another party, the lessee, to utilize an asset (such as equipment, vehicles, real estate, or machinery) for a defined period in exchange for regular payments. Leasing serves as an alternative to the outright purchase of an asset.
The fundamental elements of leasing include:
- Lessor: The lessor is the entity that owns the asset. They supply the asset to the lessee in return for lease payments.
- Lessee: The lessee is the party that makes use of the asset. They provide regular lease payments to the lessor in exchange for the privilege of using the asset.
- Lease Term: The lease term signifies the duration the lessee has permission to use the asset. Lease terms can span a wide range, from a few months to several years.
- Lease Payments: Lessees make regular payments to the lessor as per the terms specified in the lease agreement. These payments can be scheduled monthly, quarterly, or according to another agreed-upon schedule.
What are the advantages of leasing?
Leasing presents numerous benefits compared to directly purchasing of assets or property.
The advantages of leasing can vary depending on the type of leased item and the terms outlined in the lease agreement. Below are some common advantages associated with leasing:
- Lower Initial Costs: Leasing typically demands a reduced authentic payment or, in some cases, no initial down payment. This makes it a cost-effective method for acquiring assets or property, preserving your capital for other personal or business needs.
- Cash Flow Management: Lease payments are usually fixed, facilitating better cash flow management. This predictability in payments aids in budgeting and financial planning.
- Tax Benefits: In certain situations, lease payments can be tax-deductible as a business expense. This can provide tax advantages compared to depreciation and interest deductions for purchased assets.
- Access to Advanced Equipment: Leasing allows you to regularly upgrade to the latest and most technologically advanced equipment or vehicles. This can significantly enhance productivity and efficiency.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Many lease agreements include maintenance and repair services provisions, reducing your responsibility for keeping the leased assets in good working condition.
- No Depreciation Risk: When you opt for leasing, you don’t have to worry about the asset’s depreciation, which often arises when purchasing assets that may lose value over time.
- Flexibility: Leasing offers greater flexibility regarding the lease term’s duration and the ability to adapt to changing business or personal needs. Short-term leases can be particularly suitable for businesses operating in dynamic environments.
- Preserved Credit Lines: Leasing doesn’t tie up your credit lines, leaving them available for other business or personal financing requirements.
- Simplified Asset Disposal: At the conclusion of the lease term, you can easily return the asset to the lessor, avoiding the complexities of selling or disposing of depreciated assets.
- Cost Predictability: Fixed lease payments simplify predicting and planning future expenses, a valuable attribute for financial forecasting and budgeting.
- Risk Mitigation: Leasing can help distribute the risks associated with asset ownership, as the lessor often assumes some risks, including those related to obsolescence.
It’s essential to recognize that while leasing offers these advantages, there may also be downsides, such as potentially higher overall costs than purchasing, limited ownership rights, and restrictions outlined in the lease agreement.
The decision to lease or purchase should be based on your financial situation, needs, and objectives. It is advisable to thoroughly review lease agreements and, if necessary, seek advice from a financial advisor or attorney before entering into any leasing arrangement.
In previous article we discussed about the How does financial lease differ from operating lease? you can go through this article about how would be the treatment with financial lease and operating lease in case of accounting etc.