this isnt just a question for them, but also for anyone with any know how of the industry or how to get started.

ever since i joined the military i had this goal to one day retire from the army (after 20 years) at the age of 40 or 41 or possibly earlier, and open up my own shop. i want to build my own place from the ground up...tools, jacks, garage, store front, the whole nine yards!!

but just how do you go about doing this. im not lookin for a rough price on how much it costs, i know that much already...its fuggin expensive!! more so like the steps needed to be taken in order to make sure you meet all zoning standards and stuff like that. and if you want to throw out a rough estimate of start up costs for those ppl out there that might not have an idea that would be cool too.

 

I'm guessing you're just looking for a ball park $$$$ figure........otherwise...

Real Estate agent for a piece of property....
General Contractor for renovations or new build-up.....
Inspections dept. for inspections......
Zoning dept. for zoning questions.....
Bank to secure construction, start-up, and credit line loans.....
Employees.....
Advertising.....
Product lines......
Customer base.....
Etc.....



In the end....I think you're just looking for an impossible answer to an impossible question as to the cost for "start-up"......



Toooooooooooooooooooo many variables.......

 

Couldn't have said it better myself!!!

 

If your looking for just a number I would say at least 200k.

 

+1 if not more

 

I would say let them post..

 

so you agree jay that you want to know as well as i do??

 

I do.. But obviously we all know the general aspects as buzzard mountain stated.. Id like to know personal experience, but they may not be willing to post.... I was planning that on my retirement too..

 

If you do it right you will need no where near $200k to start it, first of all, start by renting, its ALOT cheaper and you should use your startup capital on inventory not on new land and a building. Second, you need to get in contact with companies that distribute aftermarket parts such as Pro-Motion, Motovicity, etc.. and also try to become a direct supplier from certain specific manufacturers, preferably the ones that you know are going to sell. The biggest thing you need to do is market research, look at what sells and what doesnt, and dont waste your money on stupid chit in the beggining because to stay afloat you are going to need to reinvest as much as you possibly can. Also make sure you have sufficient personal savings to get you by for at least 6 months with out paying your self. Grow your business, choose good mechanics that only do good work, maybe employ an engineer and try designing parts for cars that are needed at good prices, similar to what Hydrazine has done with the plenum spacer etc for the VQ motor. If you have more detailed questions feel free to PM me. But this should get you a good start. BTW by disclosing information like that I better get a hefty discount when you open

Nick

 

My father and I just opened up a Big O tires in reialto CA. and I am just going to throw out $200 at the min with some really good cred and some assests.