I don't know the Milwaukee area well, but I would suggest using a website such as autotrader.com before going to a dealership.  Enter the make and model you want and your price range.  See what's available in your area.  If you find some vehicles you are interested in then you may want to get a carfax report.  I believe for $35 you can search an unlimited number of vehicles on carfax for 1 month.  The carfax will let you know if the car was in an accident reported by an insurance company or if the car was salvaged from something like a flood.  You don't want to purchase those cars because never know what problems could happen in the future.  And make sure you chew the salesman down to their lowest price.  As hot as you are you may just get an extra special deal.

I hear good things about G & S auto on Howell Ave. Milwaukee