To work with dad or not...longish

fireberd350 · 08-05-04, 09:35

I have been a detail freak since my first car when I was 15. Previously I had learned everything I knew from my dad who has done ALOT of detailing in his day. However he is old school. The paint on his show car is lacquer that he painted on 17 years ago

but it still looks incredible. Also, his product of choice is Liquid Glass, although he uses meguiars body scrub for spot treatment on rough spots. He knows his stuff but could use some freshening up on new tricks. He is stubborn and not to sure if he'd be willing to allow his 21 year old son to teach him things about something he's been doing for longer than I've been alive. Who knows though. He was extremely impressed the first times he seen clay and a PC in action. He actually used some of my NXT on his show car and LOVED it. Maybe there is hope for him after all.

Anyways, I want to start my detailing business. Nothing huge b/c I'm still in school. I have over $700 in supplies and all the skills needed. I even have a strong customer base from doing side jobs. My dad does not work, I have a little sister who he takes care of while my mom brings in the money. I'm thinking if we went in together we could pull in more customers and get more done, at the same time put some money in my dads pockets.

Another problem, If I were to do this I would need to sell my truck

b/c the payments are killing me. I would rather invest in a small garage somewhere to use for the biz. I already rent a garage for my Buick but not one I could work out of. So I could store my buick in the new building and save the money I'm paying now to rent my garage.

What it comes down to really is whether or not I can sell my truck and most importantly work successfully with my dad. Anyone have any feedback or insight for me? Suggestions on how to approach him with the idea? anything is appreciated b/c I really have a love for doing this and want to take it to the next level.

Buick_guy · 08-05-04, 10:03

First thing, if you even think of selling your Grand National, I'll kick your ***. Even if I have to fly to Phila to do it:P.

Second, if you feel this strongly about this, then take action, just go up to your father and tell him. I bet he would be happy to do this, since its a go-go deal.

Good luck man.

ShineShop · 08-05-04, 11:20

Steve, there are a lot of considerations to opening a small business that you probably have not considered. First and foremost you need to have all the necessary licenses and permits for your area. Secondly you need to have insurance to cover your *** if you have something happen in the course of doing business. Thsi is not a luxury - it's a necessity for doing business. I know someone who thought otherwise - got sued and has lost everything he worked all his life for. You need to have a business plan and set up your banking. IF you do a search on google on opening a small business you should be able to find a lot of free tools to help you out. As for working with your Dad, I did when I opened my shop and it was the best (and the worst at times) thing I ever did. Good luck to you.

fireberd350 · 08-05-04, 12:10

Sell the Buick...hell no!! The dodge must go. thanks for the tips so far. I realize all the expenses needed for starting a business which is why I must sell my truck and drive around in my olds cutlass beater. I've already been involved in the creation and start up of two companies, one woodshop one systems integration company, not to mention a few college business classes so I have no fears there.

My main concern is do I want to get serious with this now or keep doing it as a side job. I don't plan to make a profession of this, I am going to school for Information Technology and look forward to working in that field. Its just something I enjoy doing and like to do on the side. Since my Dad is unemployed I figured it would be a good idea to get it started as a legit business and work together with him. Still alot of things to consider.

wifehatescar · 08-06-04, 07:21

Quote:

Originally posted by ShineShop
Steve, there are a lot of considerations to opening a small business that you probably have not considered. First and foremost you need to have all the necessary licenses and permits for your area. Secondly you need to have insurance to cover your *** if you have something happen in the course of doing business. Thsi is not a luxury - it's a necessity for doing business. I know someone who thought otherwise - got sued and has lost everything he worked all his life for. You need to have a business plan and set up your banking. IF you do a search on google on opening a small business you should be able to find a lot of free tools to help you out. As for working with your Dad, I did when I opened my shop and it was the best (and the worst at times) thing I ever did. Good luck to you.

Can you share what the details were of this lawsuit? Was it because of a damaged car or....?

ajbarnes · 08-07-04, 03:44

I would offer advice...but then you would be a threatening competitor.