Negotiating auto leases can be easy, once you know where to begin, and the basic areas of negotiation. Most dealers have advertised specials and other lease offerings. The first step when shopping for a car is to ask for leasing alternatives, and then to compare the different lease offerings to negotiate the best possible terms. Every lease has set parameters, but there are specific areas in the lease that are flexible. Follow these simple guidelines before you sign the lease.

Understanding the fundamentals of leasing will help you to understand the contract for which you are signing. Unlike auto loans that can be refinanced, most leases are designed to be in effect for the length of the leasing term, and can be expensive to terminate.

Since all leased vehicles are based on the purchase price of the vehicle, then negotiating the vehicle first can lower your monthly payment just as it would in a conventional auto loan. So check out the value of the car you are purchasing first through the tools found in The Auto Dealer. These four little steps, available through The Auto Dealers Toolbox, will assist you in your negotiations.

• Print out the MSRP of that new car with Kelley Blue Book.
• Print out your trade in value through Kelley Blue Book.
• Find out the latest in leasing offers!
• Get your financial information ready!

Once the purchase price has been negotiated, begin by asking the dealer about other leasing options available to you, besides the ones advertised. You will find that the dealer has many types of leases, but that he is motivated to push the lease that they make the most money on. Compare the dealers leasing results to the results found in your research through The Auto Dealer Leasing Lenders. Remember to compare the following:

• The length of the lease.
• The monthly lease payment.
• Any and all of the end-of-lease fees and charges.
• Total yearly mileage allowed and per-mile charges for excess miles.
• Purchase options or �Buy Outs� available either at lease end or earlier.
• Lease "gap" coverage that protects you if the vehicle is totaled in an accident or stolen.

Remember, that buying a new auto can be the second most expensive purchase you will make in your lifetime. Making such an important purchase decision may require a little time. If you are truly interested in the auto, most dealers will usually hold any vehicle overnight by placing a small refundable deposit of $50 with the dealer! There are many leasing options available to you, and you always have the right to think about it overnight.