I have a friend whose 98 lease is expiring soon and I'm thinking about picking up the car from him. The buyout is for about 28,000 (Canadian) after two years. Is this negotiable with the dealer?

you need to have your friend contact his bank directly. They ALWAYS have a buyout price. whether or not it is a wise decision varies depending on the lease contract, car depreciation variance from predictions, car condition, et cetera.

I've leased two cars in the last 6 years and have purchased them both before the end of the lease. The first one I sold to my brother, his bank draft went directly to my leasing comapany and my leasing company did all the title work and even sent me the equity.

Email me if you want to talk further.