Workflow
Leased car
icon
Search documents
'You Can't Afford This Car,' 'Ramsey Show' Hosts Tell $40K Newlyweds On $19K Buyout — 'Normal Is 78% Of Americans Are Living Paycheck To Paycheck'
Yahoo Finance· 2026-01-23 15:01
Core Insights - The discussion revolves around the financial implications of a car lease buyout, questioning whether it is a smart financial move given the couple's income and existing debts. Financial Situation - The couple earns approximately $40,000 annually and has leased a vehicle for three years, with a buyout option priced at $19,000, while similar cars are valued around $23,000 [1][2]. - They have significant existing debts, including $4,000 in credit card debt, $7,000 on wedding rings, and a $2,500 personal loan to parents [4]. Leasing vs. Buying - Leasing is described as "the most expensive way possible" to use a vehicle, with the co-host emphasizing that the couple has essentially been renting the car for three years [3]. - The co-hosts argue against the buyout, stating that borrowing money for a depreciating asset like a car is financially unwise, contrasting it with a mortgage where the asset typically appreciates [5][6]. Alternative Solutions - One suggested alternative is for the couple to transition to a one-car family temporarily, which could help them manage their debt more effectively [5].