Starting fresh- first 'garage'

[bluevenom867]

So up till this point in my life, I've always worked for people, friends friends cars/trucks/ect and did other various jobs from their place, or my home, and sometimes out of my truck,lol. But now I got the opportunity to finally start a 'real' shop, thanks to some family help. Question is, where to start?

Things I thought but need to consider more:

First off, is business licensing and structuring company to conform with local laws and setting up all the tax,insurance and federal related stuff-if you have experience, you could really help me out.

Second, and probably what everyone can chim in on the most is how to set-p the property and what equipment and resources I'll need. I plan to do anything and everything, and hopefully get a nice constant workflow coming in. So nothing outrageous, but certainly well equipped.

Third, how do I propagate the business and get more work? I got a small base of people that i regularly do work for, but it wont be enough by itself, so whats the best way to get new clients?

 

[sirsloop]

What kinda work you doin? General automotive stuff?

I would create a well thought out plan before you put a dime down. Think big and plan out how your business will grow. Last thing you want is people lining up at the door for work and you turning them away cause you are swamped never thought about/dont know how to hire someone and put them on payroll. Where you gettin cash to get the business off the ground? You'll need to figure out how you are going to run your books, pay your taxes (quarterly, not annually). You'll need to figure out before hand what you can write off and how you are going to keep track of it.

Sounds like if its just gonna be you, you can do a "DBA". Keep in mind you are personally liable for debts with a sole proprietorship. Ya know if you buy 100k worth of gear for your shop, never turn a profit, default on your loans... creditors can come after your personal assets! Like you can be living on the street. You can setup a LLC which provides considerable personal asset protection, but is slightly more complicated to start. Liability insurance is cheap, buy it. Buy like $1,000,000+ liability. Last thing you need is a customer coming into your shop, tripping over an air hose, and smashing their face on a lift. If you don't have coverage for this, you will most likely be paying for their facial reconstructive surgery and damages lawsuit until you are 200. Likewise if you drop a 50k corvette off your lift you don't want that coming out of your bank account

Sounds like you'll need at least a lift, tool box, tools, air compressor, tire mount/balancer. Probably will need a waste tank. IDK... maybe some other guys who work in the automotive business can chime in.

Propagate your business with a good location and good honest service! I frequently use the local shop down the street for odd jobs... they always treat me right with a fair price so I go back.

Not trying to scare you away with the business talk but its part of the gig. You can expect to work A LOT, for yourself though

 

[hockey88fan]

Buddy of mine started a shop after working for a dealership for 20yrs. His shop is in the same town, he's very successful because he is honest, personable, and does great work. One of the other reasons he gets a lot of business is that he stays open until 7pm and is open Saturday, and will come in Sunday if need be.

One of the first things he got for the shop was a waste oil furnace, he also got a decent compressor and a snap on rolling tool chest, paid $26,000 for the thing!

Good luck!

 

[kbs2244]

Two things first.

Define your market.
Define what you like to do.

If you are doing what you enjoy doing, it isn’t going to “work.” everyday.
It is getting paid to do what you like.

Are you looking to service people who don’t trust or cannot afford a dealership?
There is a “low end” market, but it comes with money chasing as an assumed thing.

I would avoid an “anything automotive” idea.
There are too many $20.00 brake and muffler shops around.

Find a specialty you like and develop a reputation as being good at it.
Electrical guys, with today’s cars, are a big need.
If you get know as the problem solver other shops will bring their problems to you.

 

[bams50]

Here is, IMO, the greatest resource you can get when starting a business.

http://www.daveramsey.com/store/boo...iness-wisdom-from-the-trenches/prodentre.html

Dave Ramsey is a hero of mine in this field. His teachings have literally been life-changing for me! Wish I'd known of him years ago. Highest possible recommendation!

And for the record, I do not personally know or work for him, nor do I know anyone that does. Just a HUGE fan.