98 buick regal LS. when going over bigger bumps, and sometimes when doing moderate/heavy braking, i'm hearing this thud/clunk sound that is coming from the passenger side front end, by the wheel well. is this a strut issue? suspension? bearings? i want to have a better idea what it is i'm dealing with, in hopes that i don't get taken to the cleaners when i take my car in to a mechanic, especially if this is gonna be an expensive repair.

Virtually impossible to diagnose a noise in this environment, could be a loose caliper bracket, lower arm loose or worn and the list goes on,. Get an onsite diagnosis and post back the info for an opinion.

I agree with Max, impossible to narrow down without on-site inspection. The 3 most common things to look for is worn lower control arm bushings, broken front sway bar or end links, and bad strut mount.