Budget Discipline

  • Recon budget must never exceed 8% of vehicle wholesale acquisition cost.
  • Focus on the 'Big 3 Touchpoints': New front tires, crystal clear headlights, and spotless interior smell.
  • Never take on an engine head gasket, timing chain, or internal transmission job unless bought at salvage salvage rates.

The goal of reconditioning is not to restore a 2021 vehicle to factory-new condition; it is to eliminate objections that prevent a retail customer from paying market value.

"Wholesale dealer auction access allows independent operators to purchase inventory 15% to 30% below retail book value, bypassing dealership markups entirely."