I am also on the Honda/Toyota wagon --- great cars, last forever, cheap, etc.
A few other tips:
1. I got my last Honda from a flight attendant - low miles even though it was older since she rarely drove it, look there!
2. Make sure seller has all paperwork, manuals, extra keys, fobs, etc - I always keep all maintenance records, these are important later! My seller even had the original car buffing and washing extras she was given by the dealer!
3. Bring a copy of your DL and ask if you can go for a test drive - overnight and mechanic visit is even better but at least drive around the neighborhood with it. Go during the day and at night - test everything.
4. CL or private usually avoids taxes, but make sure you have a notary sign the paperwork for registering the car and transferring the title - most banks do this for cheap. And make sure to have cash or check - no CC taken usually by private people.
Finally, wear old clothes and be ready to look under the car, look for rust, ask about driving habits, gas, etc. Do a tire test, check the oil, window fluids, etc.
Good luck getting yourself a "new" car!