What does it take to start a Hotrod Shop?

[youthpastor]

Originally Posted by Dieseltorkin

I recently accomplished what you are wanting to do in a short amount of time even with the economy. Here is how i went about it.

Start with as low of Overhead as you can in the beginning, If you have a garage and basic tools, start there. Of course you will have to get a few speciality tools depending on what your wanting to do exactly. Talent is the main thing you need, I am somewhat of a wiz with diesels, mechanical, design and fabrication, and a friend is amazing with body/frame machine work and paint. We started out getting some mid level ($4-8K) finished price totaled vehicles through an insurance auction and shot to get them into the market at 50-60% of retail value. We started with just 3 cars initially and 2 guys working in my 30x40 shop. In just 8 months we now complete 2-3 cars a week which are pre orders and pre paid by the customer. We do all work auto under one roof and people seem to really like that idea. We also now control our own overhead supply wise as i am now an authorized dealer for every supplier we use. I could go on and on with the details, if you have any questions or anything feel free to pm or email me, i would be glad to help.

The key points are to provide Quality work at a quality price

Start with as small of initial investment that allows you to complete the above yet minimize risk should things not pan out.

Customer service is key, you treat them right, they will come back and bring friends. Word of mouth is a priceless means of advertising, especially with the internet now days.

Hope this helps and feel free to ask any questions you may have, i could type for hrs on this subject. All in all, good luck with your venture should you try! Best wishes! Jared

Great First Post! lots of nuggets of wisdom here. others have given good feedback too.

My plan is simple- and I think Frank at Prodigy and Jason Rushforth gave me most of this advice. Your first build is going to be on your dime. Show people what you can do. Market the heck out of it and then sell it. I built my first car in our attached garage. I still remember spraying clear on it a week before SEMA when the furnace kicked on and sucked all that smell into the house at 3AM!

I am in the second step. A complete build for a customer in a small 24 x30 shop. Keep expenses low! Low risk...somebody mentioned that. In one year I have a legit business license, bank account, etc. Does it pay the bills...hardly...but the proceeds from this build bought an enclosed trailer and more shop tools....and money to put into my 69 Camaro...which I will market promote...and then sell...you get the idea.

Customer service. quality work at a fair price. and do deliver the car when you say you will.

Have I arrived...not even close....I'm I on the path to having a business doing something I enjoy? I think so.

baby steps..meet the right people at the right time and see how far the rabbit hole goes! - Chris