History and current operations
As a fixture in the West Michigan community, Harvey Automotive has been no stranger to change, moving in 1969 from its downtown location to 28th Street SE and undergoing a series of remodels over the years to keep up with shifting times. Over the years, the dealerships have been awarded various designations, including Elite of Lexus status, underscoring their commitment to the highest levels of customer satisfaction. Harvey Automotive is still a local, family-owned and -operated group, and the community is very important to them. They are pleased to continue that community support now and in the future.
When founded by President and Owner John M. Leese’s father-in-law Harvey Duthler, it was unimaginable that in 2021 Harvey Cadillac would celebrate its 55th anniversary and have completed the third reincarnation of its luxury dealership. In August 2021, sister store Harvey Lexus began a dealership re-imagination to be revealed in spring 2022, around the time of its 32nd anniversary. Harvey Auto Outlet, the newest entity, continues to offer pre-owned vehicles of all makes and models as a more affordable alternative to clients. Service options include two full-service departments and paint and collision work for all brands, makes and models.
With many options now available to automotive clients, there are a number of benefits to consider when it comes to purchasing or leasing new or certified pre-owned vehicles.
Advantages of leasing over buying a new vehicle
Traditional wisdom says buy what appreciates and lease or rent what depreciates, and new vehicles typically depreciate — even Cadillac and Lexus models. With leasing, you get a new vehicle every few years, and it’s under warranty. You also get much more vehicle for your money. You’re only paying for it from the sale price to a predetermined lease-end value, not paying it down to zero. You may think you drive too many miles to lease, but that’s why you should — you’re untethered to market conditions. If you think you’ll exceed the average 15,000 miles per year, you can factor extra miles in up front. You’ll pay a bit more but avoid a penalty at the lease end. Lease terms usually run 24 to 48 months and are straightforward transactions that give you lots of flexibility. For the ultimate experience, try a one-payment lease.
Benefits of buying certified pre-owned instead of a new vehicle
Many people view buying a new vehicle as a way to avoid the uncertainty that can come with buying a used one. Today, buying a certified pre-owned vehicle is not only a better value, it’s also lower risk. Virtually all automobile manufacturers have certified pre-owned programs. The selected vehicles go through a rigorous inspection process to become certified, and manufacturers back them with an extension of the new car warranty. Buying certified pre-owned is almost like buying new and can be even better, as the rapid portion of the new car’s depreciation occurs in the first few years. And, because body styles change less frequently now, a certified pre-owned vehicle can look just like a new one but for a fraction of the cost.
Pre-owned vehicles
There are additional options with pre-owned vehicles of all makes and models on the campus. Harvey’s sales advisers can help clients find a vehicle to fit their lifestyle and budget. With a philosophy to treat people as guests in their own home, they are not just in the transportation business; they are in the people business.
