<prompt> Human: Hi guys, I am trying to figure out what I should do to get my first car ever. I have been saving for a while now and I would say I have about 18k saved up where 7.6k is a loan 3 interest from my studies I graduated. Im trying to know if I should buy or lease a car. I do not work at the moment so I thought buying a cheap car would do the job 3k. Should I just wait to get a job and lease a brand new car or is this something I can afford without ruining my life too much? I still live with my parents so I dont have any expences except phone etc.Thanks  <response>: I thought Id offer a car-buying tip. I like to look at used cars on Craigslist for fun and because in a year or two, I plan to purchase a nicer car. My tip is when you shop on Craigslist, limit the search to model years 2008 or newer, and then limit the price range to between 1,000 and 5,000 to see cars that are newer but also fit into your price range. Youd be surprised how many good cars are available in this price range. Id also recommend having a mechanic look at the car before agreeing to purchase it if youre not a car expert and dont have a car expert father or friend to look at the car for you. 