Hello, Dave here, contributing to RepairPal and providing expert advice since 2010.
I must admit that it is not terribly abnormal for a Subaru of this vintage to have an external oil leak from engine gaskets. You'll want to make sure the vehicle is properly assessed - and the correct gaskets are determined during diagnosis.
If this is truly an externally only oil leak, I would suggest that in time the oil leak is going to get worse, and will start leaking onto the ground and hot engine components - with could create smoking and in extraordinary circumstances, an engine area fire. Engine oil typically does not ignite - but it is possible.
All that to say, get some opinions from multiple shops and also repair cost quotes. It's not going to be cheap or easy, but it's definitely resolvable. Make a good relationship with a shop near you. Also make sure to assess the rest of the vehicle - is there anything else of concern?
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