The MSRP on website is $17,760 plus destination & handleing charge$635. How do I start to bargain and what is the best deal I can in NY/NJ?

Hello,
If you can wait, the best time of the year to get good deals are at the end of the December. Granted, I don't know how much off an 08 model you'd get especially a civic but salesmen and sales managers might do a bit of wheeling and dealing to get that last sale.
Check out edmunds.com
They have some pretty useful tips.
Good luck and great choice of car.