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Looking to open Independent Dealership

Looks like Wells Fargo is out of the game.

Wells Fargo, worried about defaults, stops making loans to most independent car dealerships
https://www.cnbc.com/2020/06/02/wel...ing-loans-to-independent-car-dealerships.html

Wells Fargo, one of the biggest lenders for new and used car purchases in the U.S., sent letters to hundreds of independent auto dealerships last month telling them that the San Francisco-based company was dropping them as a customer, according to people with knowledge of the situation.

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10% of the 11K dealers Wells works with.
 
Starting an independent dealership is a significant decision, especially when transitioning from a different career. Your plan to use $150k for setting up an office, getting a dealer license, building a website, and purchasing initial inventory is a good start. Focusing on mid to high mileage luxury vehicles and lifted Jeeps and trucks in the DFW area seems like a viable niche.

For DMS software, consider cloud-based options like DealerBuilt DMS, which offers good third-party integration. Research thoroughly to pick a vendor that suits your specific needs.

Regarding purchasing on credit or floor planning, leveraging a line of credit can help maintain liquidity. With your strong credit score, this could be a viable option for a few vehicles.

Using $50k for living expenses is practical, especially since your wife's income can support your household. However, ensure you have enough funds to sustain the business during its initial phase.

Since you're focusing on internet sales and specific vehicle types, "tote the note" might not align with your business model. However, it's good to be open to different financing methods as the business evolves.

Networking with successful dealership owners in DFW and seeking mentorship can be immensely beneficial. Also, consider joining forums where dealers discuss industry specifics. Remember, the automotive business can be competitive and complex, so thorough preparation and continuous learning are key to success.
 

✨ AI Highlights

Paul C., a 48-year-old IT professional considering leaving his six-figure job to start an independent car dealership in DFW with $150k in startup capital, receives advice from experienced dealers on key operational decisions including DMS software selection, inventory listing platforms, and financial runway expectations. The consensus from respondents emphasizes that success requires genuine passion for automotive retail, gradual scaling (crawl-walk-run), and realistic planning for the 1-2 year burn period before profitability, with practical recommendations on tools like DealerCenter for DMS and caution against premature real estate investment. The thread reveals that while Paul has adequate personal financial cushion given his wife's six-figure income, his inexperience will come at a cost, and finding an established dealer mentor or partner may be more valuable than going it alone.

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