re: I can’t help but think a lot of people driving newer cars with upside down loans

People who bought during COVID and didn't put 20% down are absolutely tanked in their cars. Now at least, dealers are back to discounting cars but rates are higher. The best I've seen recently was a Chase call at 6.15 on a used car. Now you do have specials on new cars, like 3.9 for 72 months on 24 Nissan Rogues right now. An 800 credit score and 10% don't go together. Your bank sucks. Credit unions are the way to go if you're not willing to finance with the dealer.

What I've been telling my customers is date the rate, marry the payoff. Put money down and refinance when rates come down.