Leasing means, simply, renting. The asset does not become the property of the person leasing it. However, many leasing arrangements include a special provision allowing the asset to be purchased for a purely nominal (that is, very small) amount once it has been leased for a substantial period. Strictly, this makes them lease-purchase schemes. For all practical purposes, there is little difference between 'lease-purchase' and 'hire- purchase', though the respective interest rates should be carefully compared together with the detailed clauses of the agreements. The professional advice of a banker or a lawyer should also be taken regarding the tax position regarding the different types of agreement