Your car will be inspected for any potential damage considered 'beyond fair wear and tear' and collected by a professional individual working on behalf of your leasing provider on a suitable date for both parties. Don't worry, the car isn't expected to be in showroom condition! However, you'll need to pay for repairs if the vehicle is in a condition which doesn't reflect normal use over the period of time you had it.
A provider will also check the odometer on the car during the inspection to make sure that the agreed annual mileage cap has been stuck to. Should you go over this, an excess mileage charge will be in place at a rate per mile specified by the provider at the beginning of the lease.
Given that the vehicle is in an acceptable condition and you don't go over your agreed mileage, you have three options.
1. Return the car and lease another brand-new vehicle from the same provider. Usually a member of the team will be in touch in the weeks leading up to the end of your contract to see what your plans are, and if they can help you find your next suitable model.
2. Return the car and search online to compare deals on your next new car from multiple providers.
3. Return the car and walk away if you don't need or want another vehicle, with nothing more to pay.
At no point will you own a lease car, so you won't need to worry about trying to sell it on when you no longer need it.