BUYING A CAR WASH: The Inspection By Norris Streetman

Okay, you have made the decision.  You really want to buy a car wash. You've looked into the business, talked to some experts, contacted a broker, and you know how much you want to spend.  Now it is time to go shopping.  The question is, what to look for! Or more precisely, what is a good car wash?

First, relax. You are under no obligation to buy anything.  The broker, the owner, the various inspectors, they are all there for you.  Remember, you are the person writing the check.  In other words, make these people work for you-ask questions.  Do not be embarrassed.  Knowledge is power.  It can save you money, now and in the future.

Next, trust your instincts.  When you go to a site, ask yourself, "Would I want to wash my car here?" Are the bays clean? Does it appear that someone who cares has maintained the overall structure? Does it need paint? What about the signs? Are they bright and fresh or old and faded? What are the general condition of the hoses and meters? How old are they? Who is the manufacturer?  Are replacement parts readily available?

Also, as you probably have become aware, a car wash sells more than high pressure soap and water.  What vending machines come with the wash? What is the age and condition?  Look at the change or token dispenser.  Does it appear damaged? Is there a record of break-ins or attempted break-ins? Will it need to be replaced?

Another consideration is the landscape. If it has grass, what is its condition? Will you have to spend money to upgrade? Are there any trees, shrubs, or flower beds on the location? Although these may seem like small matters, they dramatically increase curb appeal. And as we all know, curb appeal attracts customers. Or turns them off, as the case may be.

And remember, many of your customers are women. For them, safety is a concern. Drive by the wash on a Saturday night. Would you feel comfortable knowing your wife or your teenage daughter were there washing their car? How well lit is the site? Does it show signs of vandalism? Do teenagers or tramps hangout there or nearby?

How many and what types of businesses are in the vicinity? Restaurants and convenience stores are good; strip bars, night clubs, dirty book stores, etc., all repel customers.  Take some time to talk to the neighboring small business persons.  They may have information the seller is reluctant to share.

Now the pump room.  Unless you are well versed in boilers and pumps, hire an expert, someone who knows the car wash industry. Within your region you can find a company that services car washes. Call them and ask them if they provide an inspection service for car wash buyers.  If they do not, ask them to refer you to someone who can.

Of course, if you have hired the right broker, he or she can provide the right inspector: the one who is honest and looking out for your interests. He will know the car wash industry and he will be willing to ask the tough questions of the owner. Ideally, he will give you a detailed, written  opinion as to the condition and reliability of the equipment and what it will cost for repairs, upgrades, or replacements.

Do not be intimidated by his expertise. Follow in his footsteps. Become his shadow.  When he looks at something, ask him what he is looking for. And when the inspection is complete, take him to the side and ask him point blank, "Would you buy this car wash? Why? Why not?"

Again, trust your own instincts.  Is the pump room clean? Is the floor dry or is it covered with water and soap? What is the condition of the hoses and the pumps? Are the pipes rusty? Ask the owner for his maintenance log. If he does not keep one, it is a good sign that he is the type of person who does not do preventive upkeep, he merely handles problems as they arise. Not good.

Or perhaps he has a professional car wash service providing upkeep.  Get his permission to talk to them.

Then again, it could be that he has an independent jack-of-all-trades who handle things.  Does he keep records? Is he aware of any special problems? Ask, but do not take his word for anything.  He works for the owner, not you.

Now go home and do a detailed cost analysis of what it will take to get this site presentable, working, and profitable. Use the inspector's report. Contact suppliers and find out the true cost of parts and installation. What is the actual cost to maintain the site? Do not underestimate. Under the best conditions, unseen difficulties will arise.  Add ten percent to everything.

Finally, go with your gut. If there is something you do not like, talk to your broker or the inspector. Perhaps the owner is willing to make repairs himself or come down on the price. If you do not ask, you will never know. Remember, you write the check.  It is your future.  Good luck and happy hunting.

Oh yeah, just because you dance with a gal it doesn't mean you have to marry her or even meet her family.

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