Surprise Z costs

SMJane_Again

Cossie, you're exactly right. Home buying is a fine goal, but it certainly is not for everybody. Some markets have such a high cost of living that scraping together 20% is practically impossible. I'm fortunate enough that I got my home bought before lending tightened up, but the idea that started this thread derailment that I need to get a house before buying a car is preposterous.

OP, here's the thing. The only thing that matters when looking at a car is whether or not the purchase negatively affects the style you've grown accustomed to living in or the style you're prepared to live in. If it does to an extent that it makes you uncomfortable, hold off and look at the purchase at a later date. As the others have said, I respect you for looking hard at the numbers, that's the only way you'll truly know if you can afford it. Whatever you decide, good luck!

S.

__________________
~S.M.
"Don't look back. Someone might be gaining on you."
-Satchel Paige