Mark101

Members
 View Profile  See their activity

  • Content Count

    4179

  • Joined

  • Last visited

  • Days Won

    31

Posts posted by Mark101

  1. Posted

    Just now, NOACROSS said:

    Well said mate. Nice post. Maybe our vague idea we’ve been throwing around about working from home in the future, my come sooner than we envisaged worse (ish) way. 

    I had started that process (in theory but very realistic) until this crisis hit with a target date of September 2021 (the date of my 3 year breakout clause from the lease).

    We had identified a potentially suitable property, a big ex-farm house of which most the land/barns have long since been sold off for development but still retains a decent plot of about 1.5 acres, just off a main road (easy to find) and an existing large outbuilding which could be redeveloped (STPP) to house around 15-20 cars.

    At the moment it is a pipe dream.

    The only thing that goes through my mind (bearing in mind that to fund this purchase would be existing equity plus a large mortgage equal to my current mortgage + my unit rent costs).

    What happens if I fail to obtain planning permission? Or what if I "wing it" then get shut down.

    • Like 1

  3. Posted · Edited by Mark101

    I was talking to my Dad (on the phone) last night. He starting telling me (he used to run several businesses) that one needs to plan for lack of sales, build reserves etc. He is right of course, generally speaking but then I reminded him.

    My turnover is anywhere between £50k and £150k per month.

    My monthly costs are between £10-15k per month (fixed costs + whatever stock funding is due payment). This is the nett margin (from the metal) I need from the turnover to pay myself a wage (to pay bills at home, as if I was employed), my valeter a wage, rent, insurance, advertising, stock fund capital repayments. Most months it is manageable, tight but doable.

    I told him I have 3 months worth of reserves to cover zero sales for the same period, explaining when your fixed costs are so high, there is only so many months money I can tuck away for a rainy day.

    I think it opened his eyes a little to how cash flow dependant this business is.

    I have no doubt that I have enough reserves to get through the initial lock-down but when I start trading again, I will be so close to the wire that the enjoyment will be completely gone, living in fear as to whether today is the last day.

    I still say, well done to the government, NHS and everyone else trying to resolve this terrible situation. I will be the last to complain, even if this crisis takes all my money because there is far, far worse situations. I am sat in a warm house, large garden, only one adjoining neigbour, recently installed Sky TV, a great girl friend who is like my best mate, my border collie and a few months money to live off (for now). I am also fortunate that my kids have grown up and have their own houses (and children) and are safe and well. I cannot imagine how difficult it must be to entertain a couple of bored kids. Like I say, it would be wrong of me to complain when people are losing the battle.

    • Like 1

  4. Posted

    I am sorry, I also disagree. 

    Personally, I will get nothing as I fall in the 20% category. That said, the government has my full respect, I think they are doing an amazing job in pressing times. You cannot please all of the people all of the time and even if this bankrupts me, people have lost far more.

    If these people get £800, it is fair to assume their other half will get at least the same or if they earn benefit due to a number of issues or young children, they remain unaffected.

  5. Posted

    7 minutes ago, BHM said:

    I could be wrong as usual but I suspect it more likely the total lack of sales at the moment twisted their arm.

    Personally, I think this is more likely. The investors are faceless individuals driven by profit, not what people are saying about them on social media. I am sure it didn't help.

    I for one am getting plenty of enquiries. I haven't responded to a single one because I think that is doing my bit for our health and economy long term.

    The answerphone message does explain everything.

    Still getting what is your best price for cash questions. I am not risking my health for a decent wage, let alone deal with bottom dollar offers.

  6. Posted

    1 minute ago, trade vet said:

    Hi Mark

    No not yet,I have 2 potential good long term tenants.One for a Kwik Fit type and MOT and accessories and another an existing kitchen and bedroom company who want to share it with a tile supplier who have other outlets.I have had several car dealers wanting it but they have been unable to convince me that they have or will make any money.When this is all over I hope I am still around to restart negotiations.

    I would be looking at a "big group" Kwik Fit for example is a good one. Rent paid on time (COVID 19 aside) and no concerns about upkeep, or midnight flits.

  7. Posted

    13 minutes ago, trade vet said:

    There are empty big franchise showrooms availible everywhere,I have never seen so many.The best franchise dealership premises in our area is now empty,you could not wish for a better pitch.Is there any wonder,as Mr Gupta says the average net profit of late has been 0.8% and its going to get a lot worse.

    Did you ever manage to sell or let your place Ian?

  8. Posted

    20 minutes ago, trade vet said:

    Have you seen Bangers and Cash tv programme about MATHEWSON’S auction in North Yorkshire.Mini Cooper s 1275 total rotbox most scrap men would have refused it....It did 19 grand ?

    Was that the beige piece of shite which they literally dragged out of a garage? What a joke.

  10. Posted

    7 hours ago, Trader86 said:

    Surely I made a right call to stay employed.. resignation all typed up, but still in my drawer... god knows when all this ends.. I hope you folks are all taking it easy. 

    Am I even allowed to arrange any viewings as I had couple of people calling but told them not to bother, as don’t want to get into troubles.. 

    No. You're trying to have your cake and eat it.

    Unlike most of us, you are still earning at least 80% of your salary. Most on here will be earning sweet FA and even if they do offer some "wage" support, what about my rent, advertising (after the free period), insurance et al.

    Be happy with the position you are fortunately in (guided by people on this forum, myself included to hold off resigning). 

     

    • Like 1

  12. Posted

    15 minutes ago, NOACROSS said:

    Doh! 
    I did manage to get a load of extra featured listings for the (crap) gumtree side of the platform. Every little helps. 

    I don't even bother with using the featured settings. Just attracts even more nonsense.

  13. Posted

    On the surface, I think this looks a pretty impressive gesture. However, I imagine AT are worried that many will cancel their package and may not return after the crisis is over. Is this a tactic to keep people on the hook for another couple of months before cancelling. If businesses reopen in a couple of months, they will have retained a good percentage of those lured to stay contracted for one free month, after which, surely they will have to pay two months together for the defered month of March - ouch?

  15. Posted

    2 minutes ago, Mojo121 said:

    it isn't the best tactic to move metal. 

    People always want what they can't have :P:lol:

    Anyway, I am enjoying not being chained to the place but I am equally bored sat at home. Perhaps I will go on holiday for some sun, oh wait.....................:huh:

    • Haha 1

  16. Posted

    2 minutes ago, Mojo121 said:

    What's professional about it? It's making it harder for the public to purchase your product. Surely the opposite of professional. If someone is still looking at buying a car today then they don't give a monkeys about the virus and the last person they'll want to buy from is someone's who might be a bit paranoid about it... no offence intended, just my thoughts.

    Therefore, business as usual. Take your precautions - no handshakes, antibac spray , wiping desks, but don't go changing the formula.

     

    Maybe this is controversial?

    I don't think it is professional, it isn't about that. It is personal for me, a choice (at the moment) I have decided to make for my own, my family, friends and contacts health. 

    I have had so many enquiries and every one of them has appreciated my stance.

    Financially it will be tough but Health is Wealth.

  17. Posted

    3 minutes ago, JA Trader said:

    Ill not pop in for a coffee this week then. :D

     

    In all seriousness brilliant advice and a very professional stance.

    I have actually taken it one step further and after Friday, will go into proper lock down. Just need these 4 gone to put some funds in the bank.

    New statement just gone live:

    XXX Ltd has taken the decision to suspend any and ALL casual viewing of vehicles and any non-essential activities in order to protect its staff, contractors, customers and suppliers against any unnecessary and potential exposure to any COVID 19 (Coronavirus). 
     
    Until further notice, XXX staff will not be in physical attendance to perform viewings on vehicles or any other business activity but will retain an Online presence at: 
     
    www.co.uk 
     
    We are sorry for the inconvenience this may cause but we feel as a responsible company and employer, these are sensible safety measures to help limit the spread of Coronavirus. 
     
    We would like to thank All of our existing and new customers for their support and understanding during these troubling times and we wish you and your families our very best wishes. 

  18. Posted · Edited by Mark101

    All of my adverts have the company statement:

    XXX Ltd has taken the decision to suspend any and ALL casual viewing of vehicles in order to protect its staff, customers and suppliers against any unnecessary and potential exposure to any COVID 19 (Coronavirus). 
     
    Until further notice, XXX staff will only be in attendance to hand over vehicles that have already been sold or for people whom have made a commitment to buy a vehicle from the description and pictures on the website by means of a non-refundable deposit. 
     
    We are sorry for the inconvenience this may cause but we feel as a responsible company and employer, these are sensible safety measures to help limit the spread of Coronavirus. 
     
    Thank you for your cooperation and understanding. 
     

    Typically, I have 4 cars going out on Friday which under normal circumstances I would be very happy.

    I have popped in for a couple of hours today (finish prepping one car) and one hour on Monday (a sold one collected by third parties for MOT and a smart repair). Other than that, I am working from home.

    I refused my Auditor from Next Gear entry today and just handed him a notice saying that we are not handling anything non-essential. His office agreed for him to leave.

    All shutters are down, door locked and a sign pointing people to our website if they want to "buy" a car - No casual viewings.

    This means I am still isolated (excpet my dog came in with me) and no-one should be aware that I am in.

  19. Posted

    3 minutes ago, JA Trader said:

    You on commission for autosmart ? :D:D

    I should be. I really rate the products to be fair. I can't be arsed with getting Windowlene (one for the older boys there) from place a, tyre shine from place b, wash n wax from c etc just because one is slightly better/cheaper/whatever. They come to me once a fortnight and replenish stocks.

  23. Posted · Edited by Mark101

    56 minutes ago, BHM said:

    Most definitely! The number of people who lift the bonnet, see it beautifully presented (usually better than the bodywork tbh) & then declare the engine perfect is a surprise. 

    I pressure wash every engine bay, usually when hot & running, then finish off with Finish. However I know what not to spray the water at. 

    Only ever had one problem & that was just in January on an Alfa 159. Parked up afterwards for a month, found to be in limp mode, found to be the engine fan had seized - full of water. 

    My valet likes Finish, I prefer WD40 so we use both :)

     

  24. Posted

    16 minutes ago, MarkTVS said:

    Quick soak with tfr then quick rinse with a pressure washer does it for us, we do 5/10 a week and rarely have issues.

    +1

    Avoid ECU, Coil Packs or electrics in general but people really do buy into a clean engine and bay.