6.5 Leasing
Leasing is an option available to firms wanting to acquire assets for use without actually buying them. A lease is a contract in which the owner of the asset (the lessor) grants to another party (the lessee) the exclusive right to use that asset, usually for a specific period of time. In return the lessee pays the lessor periodically, usually regular monthly amounts. The lease agreement sets out the obligations of both parties, and typical provisions in the agreement state:
- The period of the lease
- Whether either party can cancel the lease
- What happens to the asset at the end of the lease period, for example, whether it is returned to the lessor, or the lease renewed
- The amount and timing of the lease payments
- The asset's residual value
- The party responsible for the payment of all maintenance and repairs.
Almost any asset that can be bought can also be leased. Depending on conditions in the lease agreement, a lease can be described as either an operating lease or a financial lease .
Text reading
Atrill, Mclaney, Harvey & Jenner, pages 444-445
Make your own list of the advantages of finance leases