Buy and sell in 3yrs, or lease now?

-We're pregnant with #3 now and our car is dying. We expect to have at least 4 kids so will need a minivan eventually but not before 3 years is up. We just can't afford or need a minivan now.



I know there are many factors, but just based on what I'm telling you, do you think I'd end up financially ahead if we lease a car for 3 years (and maybe go over miles), or buy used or new and sell/trade-in in 3yrs?You can't afford a minivan, but you can are going to keep on popping out kids that you have to pay for 18 years +?

That's doesn't come across as a very smart statement.



Leasing will never put you financially ahead. If you need a minivan for 10 years, you buy the best one you can now and keep/maintain it.

That choice should be the Honda Odyssey.



EDIT - Hmmm...nowhere did I criticize your choice in family size. My statement was based on your own words, which said you can't afford a minivan right now, but want to keep having kids.

Your family can be your priority all you want, and I respect that. What I don't get is people having children they admittantly cannot financially afford. And by your own words (not mine), you can't afford a van right now. I just found it odd that you can keep having kids with no money. That's all.
My aunt and uncle had three kids. They bought their minivan new back in the 90's and have been trading in every 3 years since then. I think that might be the best option for you.



That way you don't have to worry about a lot of problems (going over miles with road trips, lots of wear and tear, etc.) and should you and your kids get sick of the family van after a while, you can trade it and get a brand new model. It seems to have worked for them; they're still driving the same brand to this day. Just traded in for a 2011 a few months ago.



Congratulations on your new baby and good luck!