looking to buy car!

Since speed = money x "performance level" I'd take the $1,700, put it in a CD while you worry about the house. A car that price will cost you more than it is worth. I just purchased my first home in June and despite all the expense of doing so, renting is the bottomless pit to nowhere. What you can save long term may buy you that 10 sec car. I'd develop a 5 - year plan to get your finances under control, keep a pile of $ in the bank for a rainy day and then see what the $1,700 returns for you. I know, waiting is harder than loosing weight but that is why the nifty duster is good for me for now and the 1970 Satallite with the 440+6 is somewhere in my future.

Happy hunting. -LY