I just discovered this amazing website. So first of all, I’d like to thank everyone for sharing their knowledge and wisdom.
I’m considering leasing a Jeep Grand Cherokee (The Laredo E 4X2, which is the cheapest model to my knowledge). However, my ‘starting point’ is not ‘ideal’ -
I am an international student on an F1 visa moving to the States in late July. I do not have a credit score or social security number.
The bright side, we do have a family member with a T1/T1+ tier credit score, who is willing to cosign and even lease the car on his behalf, but this is the least desirable option.
You mentioned the two key requisites that will be needed to lease: SSN and credit score (and proof of income, but not gonna go there now).
Your best bet is to buy a beater and work on building your credit score, or maybe have a co-signer. Search LH for F-1 threads and that should give you more context. GLWT
F-1 status IIRC does not even allow you to work (have an income) in the US except under some very limited circumstances, before you even get to the credit/SSN issue. I’d suggest saving up some money and buying a cheaper used car.
@Kctham18@Bismarck, thanks for replying. As I mentioned, we have a relative with an excellent credit score who is willing to serve as a co-signer. The question is whether I can, with my current status, and, if so, is the lease worth it, in which case the cost will not be overly expensive.
won’t really know till you try and see what works out. It really does vary widely by manufacturer, bank/lessor, and what the vehicle in question is (how much). So much variability that it’s hard to speak in specifics.
won’t really know till you try and see what works out. It really does vary widely by manufacturer, bank/lessor, and what the vehicle in question is (how much). So much variability that it’s hard to speak in specifics.