Woodbridge, Ont. -- In regard to your article (Avoid these common car-buying mistakes, June 10) there are a few concerns I have as a sales and leasing consultant.

There aren't always shortcomings with a vehicle. Some vehicles have very few issues, and a salesman may not be aware of any issues. Everyone's idea of an issue is different, just as the concept of a "good deal" is different for everyone.

Regarding knowing the value of your trade, customers more frequently than not have no idea what their vehicle is worth. Customers will check Autotrader-type sites, which really only list what other misled people are wishing they can get for theirs.

Dealers offer wholesale prices for trades, giving customers both a tax benefit, and a cash buyer who will "pay today" for their car, eliminating the need for reconditioning, advertising, and waiting for those appointments that never show up, when you try to sell privately.

Lease payments are not meant to hide any information. People simply want to know what their monthly payment will be, and have very little regard for the overall selling price. When a customer insists on leasing a vehicle, the monthly payment is the entire negotiating medium.

You're correct in writing that there may be other better options than leasing, and believe me, a good salesperson will highlight those because they can give the customer a lower payment than leasing, while allowing the dealer to make a fair profit at the same time (win-win if you will).