tskeeter
Junior Associate
Joined: Mar 20, 2011 19:37:45 GMT -5
Posts: 6,831
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Post by tskeeter on Mar 31, 2011 19:07:13 GMT -5
Jimmo, my rough rule of thumb is that it costs between $7,500 and $10,000 a year to own a reliable car. Some can do it cheaper, some it costs more, depending on a variety of circumstances. That pays for a lot of cab fares and rental cars every year. If I lived in an urban area, like you do, and especially if I lived close to the L or a commuter train line, I'd try living without a car, too. Let's face it, even under the best of circumstances, cars are an expensive PIA. Under less than ideal circumstances, they make you start to wonder if a Mcjob at the end of the block so you don't need a car isn't just as good as a job that requires a MBA.
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8 Bit WWBG
Administrator
Your Money admin
Joined: Dec 19, 2010 8:57:29 GMT -5
Posts: 9,322
Today's Mood: Mega
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Post by 8 Bit WWBG on Apr 1, 2011 9:47:20 GMT -5
After reading all the replies, I like the idea of renting when you need it, and trying to negotiate ahead of time for some kind of "frequent rental" discount.
Those lease trading sites are the subject of much discussion and speculation. I've heard legends of people who are so over their mileage paying YOU to take the car. I'm sure there is that one out of a thousand gem that you can end up picking up for far less than an equivalent car from a dealer or private party.
But if it were that easy, everyone would do it. So tread at your own caution. I've heard horror stories about lease trades getting delayed by the sites, and money going "missing" after being paid, and so forth.
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