---
id: guide-0031
title: "Lease vs. Buy: How to Decide"
category: guide
subtopic: lease-vs-buy
page_type: guide
source_url: "https://www.castlecadillacmchenry.com"
tags: ["leasing", "buying", "financial-decision", "ownership-comparison"]
questions:
  - "Should I lease or buy?"
  - "What's the difference between leasing and buying?"
  - "Is it cheaper to lease or own?"
  - "What are pros and cons of leasing?"
related: [monthly-payment, down-payment, lease-vs-buy]
dealer: Castle Cadillac McHenry
---

## Leasing: Rent a Car for 2-3 Years

You pay monthly for a fixed term, return the car, and walk away. **Pros**: Low payments, no repair costs (warranty covers it), always driving something new. **Cons**: Mileage limits (usually 10,000-12,000 miles/year), wear-and-tear charges, no equity, and you never own it.

## Buying: Own It Forever (or Trade It In)

You finance (or pay cash), own the car outright when paid off, and keep it as long as you want. **Pros**: No mileage limits, full customization freedom, builds equity, lower cost over 7+ years. **Cons**: Higher monthly payments initially, you pay for repairs after warranty, depreciation hits your pocket.

## Which Is Right for You?

**Lease if**: You drive 10,000 miles/year or less, want predictability, and like new cars every few years.

**Buy if**: You drive 15,000+ miles/year, plan to keep the car 5+ years, or want to build equity.

## Let's Explore Both

Castle Cadillac McHenry offers both leasing and financing on Cadillac models. Call **(779) 265-4427** to compare rates and terms for your situation-our Finance team can show you real numbers for both paths.