A friend has a dilemma. Due to sudden change in circumstances, she now has to provide a monthly stipend to her extended family (in-laws).
She has planned of buying a new car but granting the circumstances, she's having second thoughts of buying. She doesn't want to be seen spending money while she's supporting her extended family. She thinks its poor form to be seen in a new car while her family is in hardship.
I'm stumped as well. What would you do?
The reasonable thing is to buy the car. Unfortunately, people and families are not always reasonable - particularly when in financial stress. It is an emotional time. Many families hold on to grudges for a while. Personally, unless there is something wrong with the old car, I'd hold off until they came to terms with the new situation. She'll enjoy the car more that way, in the end. It's not the "right" thing to do, but could be the more peaceful.
How long is this arrangement for? It's kind of silly to be walking on eggshells indefinitely. Where do you draw the line? You can't ever buy a new house lest the family get jealous? New suit? New dog? Better stop posting foodie photos on Facebook otherwise they will know you ate out at a fancy restaurant.
She could always tell a white lie and say it's a company car or job perk or something… :D
Good point! Company car it is!
Personally I would help my family. That aligns closest to my values.
That said, if my current car was unreliable or dangerous I would purchase a good quality used car.
Its her money. In-laws did not raise her. (Different for direct family).
Clarify with the husband, if he does not have any concerns with the pressure from his parents, go ahead with the car.
I would not want to lie to my spouse, company car sounds like a good idea but husband might have to be in on it.
Personally, I would never buy a car brand new. The moment the car leaves the dealership you've just lost a couple thousand dollars.
Buy a really crap car so it lays the guilt trip on the in-laws.
Don't buy car unless it's used to go to work / make money and public transport is not an option.
If she can still help out and get her new car why not… Sometimes you have to do something nice for yourself. If she can help her family and buy the car go ahead just don't brag about it :)