Where's all the money come from?

[68Formula]

Okay, first let me say, please don't turn this into "how I built my car for $50" thread.

I seriously want to know where all the bucks are coming from for these projects.

I thought I made a decent living, but the quality and money spent on some of the vehicles here blow my mind. I have about $4k in suspension, brakes, wheels and tires (probably wouldn't have spent quite that much, but you guys ruined me) and I was conservative. But some have more than that in just wheels/tire alone. Even the media guys who often claim they virtually work for free have more $$$ in parts than I can dream of.

I wish (oh how I wish) I had the money to build this level of car.

So what's going on, do we have a lot of doctors, dinks, single guys living in studios? Or is everyone in hock up to their eyeballs? Is there a secret club where I can get top line parts for 10 cents on the dollar. Clue me in.

[colt zantop]

I was on "unlimited overtime" 55-65 hours a week for 2 years..that will get ya some dough....... being 23, single, and no kids also helps! Im the biggest penny pincher unless it involves tools or the car....my friends always dog on me for not going out or not going golfing......etc....I save my money for car parts!!! I also have had help investing in different things (stocks... etc)from my dad.....alot of people my own age dont do that...I got friends that make double an hour what I did and have nothing becuase they cant manage money! I also have zero credit cards, so debt is out of the question. I think the easyest way to get what you want is to be patient and smart with your money....... :)

[Steve Chryssos]

I think it's just deceiving. The crazy cars get all the attention. So it looks like all the cars are crazy. But in reality, most members have much more modest vehicles. Also, many (most?) guys spread the total cost across a number of years. It's kinda like paying off a new car only in reverse--pay now, drive later.

[formula]

-I work for my dad over the summers for free, and he finances one big car project a year, plus insurance and gas till I'm done with college. I know that sounds like a sweet deal, but I like to think that I work for it. I work out on his manufacturing facility floor in the morning doing machine work, welding, sandblasting, and assembly, then do administrative stuff in the afternoon, and I work trade show booths with him, and I help out the engineers with field testing and calibration stuff.

-During the school year, I work two jobs, one as an editorialist for my school's website, and one for my school's sports marketing department at pretty much every home event we have in any sport. This, combined with careful money management (buying half a case of beer instead of three cases, for example), keeps me afloat with some cash to throw around at the end of each year. Of course, cash to throw around=cash to throw at my car.

-I saved my allowance from 6th grade until the end of high school to buy my car. Probably my proudest achievement.

Last, I have no debt, no living expenses (live and eat on campus), no dependents...all my money goes to booze, fun, and my car.

Then again, you probably weren't wondering where the college kid with the ratty second gen got the money for his car, were you? lol

[twoduners11]

this thread should be very interresting. now, can anyone assure me there arent any IRS employee's watching?

[rockdogz]

My name is Elmer J. Fudd, millionaire, I own a mansion and a yacht

:hammer::rolleyes:

[batman]

Are you trying to win this game? Or, do you just want to play and enjoy your ride as you can afford it? For most of us it is a matter of priorities. Of course there are some with serious deep pockets with silly money spent on great......and bad cars.

To win at this hobby (it really is evolving into a sport) takes passion, guts, determination, stamina, a keen sense for what's cool, a bunch of talent and "all the money you have". The question of balancing the need to pay rent or buy the six piston calipers this month will never cross your mind.....the rent gets paid somehow.....after the brakes get on the car. Typically there is no balance here. The scale always tips in the favor of THE CAR.

If you just want to play and enjoy the ride while balancing family, work, bills and all of the other important things in life then you are like most people. And, there's nothing wrong with that. Keep in mind that most of the high end cars you read about here are built by pro's that do this for a living or they are bought from the pro’s by guys who have earned the privilege. Go ahead and count the one’s you consider the best. The list is short and they are cars to admire and learn from.

My car will probably never be in a booth at SEMA or on the cover of Hot Rod....but it speaks to me. It gives me tremendous pleasure and I couldn't "be me" without it. After I finish this post I will walk out to the garage and look at my car……sounds silly but WTF

Don't gage your car by what you’ve spent on wheels and tires …….just make sure your car speaks to you.

[Martin71RS]

Cam, it probably doesn't really matter...but I do like your car a lot! It inspired me when I saw it first a few years ago....

I have a decent income but not spectacular. I als am married, have 2 small kids and a house I pay mortgage on.
If I would have to pay my car from my income I wouldn't be where I am now.......

First I sold my bikes to buy the Camaro. After that I sold my car to buy parts. When we did a rebuild on our first house I got some cash out the mortgage for more parts.....but then it dried up....so I started doing jobs on the side and some trading......

I have so much cash in my car...I could never believe I would spend that on a car, but once you get started there is no way back (and the ideas I get from this site aren't helping much either financially speaking)

I bought the Camaro in 1998 and only drove it for little over a year before starting over again.....
So the money I spent is spread over several years, but the car is all paid for!

I agree that just knowing what you do with your money is the start....it is so easy to blow it away on stuff you do not want or need.
Also true is to build what you like....not what is "commonly accepted"

Now I just need to finish it (he says while making a new order at Summit again)

Martin

[JJSmitches]

EBAY.

And I strip on Fridays...

yea.

[ProStreet R/T]

I've got a couple nice toys (no pt stuff yet), and yes 25, single, good income, and some well placed investments early on are paying off.

My biggest thing is being fanatical about debt, or lack their of. Never buy toys on credit and it keeps the monthly expenses down to a minimum. Well other than buying property in SoCal that is :scared:


But keep at it and things will come together. Nobody ever said you need a $12k set of HRE wheels to have a bad ass car. Most people here appreciate the blood, sweat, and hours of hard work in a normal car a lot more than a one off custom where the only "work" by the owner involved was signing the american express slip.

just my $.02

[Gordz32]

My Dad and I are building the car together for him, so he's footing the bill, I get to pick parts and design it. He's worked his ass off for years, will be turning 59 this year and is an executive at a pharmacutical company. He's always wanted a chevelle and now he has the money to build a bad ass car so thats what were doin.:twothumbs, It an't cheap to build a car with top brand parts, (we finding that out as we have over 20k in the car right now just in parts and thats just drivetrain and suspension.) But you can def. build a nice car for cheaper, it just takes more blood,sweat,and tears. haha goodluck!

[rocketrod]

My wife and I both make pretty good $$$, for our area anyway, have no debt other than mortgage. We live within our means for the most part, but I do splurge on the Camaro. It will never grace the cover of a car magazine or win a road race event, but then that isn't why I built it. Just remember to build the car for you and not get caught up in the trying to impress others, which can be easier said than done if your a member here.....

[philbay]

Thats how I was feeling. great tread.. I too,would look and wish,and as late,wonder? how do they afford it? I have a 70 chevelle since 1989, still evolving, I cant begin to tell you how many times I made a wish list and built my car in my dreams, and of course they all end up looking like the great cars we see here. But,and I repeat BUT> I love my car,,and am proud of it and will keep it evolving till my dying day...and believe me,,, theres still plenty to do.. a parent,who has one habit left.all the others are gone,this one Ill keep. thank you

[TLWiltman]

-Good $$ (~$26/hr)
-~600-1000 hours of OT/year
-Working off-site gets me per-diem from my employer (anywhere from 3-9 months out of the year)
-single
-no crumb-crunchers (unless you count my dog and 2 cats)
-My g/f is on board...or she goes. That simple
All that and my priorities are all screwed up
-too cheap to buy a house until the car is near done
-my daily driver has 230,000+ miles on it. Drive till death. Buy POS. Repeat
-NO credit cards
-I commute to work because it's too expensive to live close
Basically, I sacrifice my a$$ off to live a dream

[CAMAROBOY69]

If it makes you feel any better I consider myself the regular guy with the budget build. I have been working on mine for 3 years when I have the money. MONEY is the only reason my car is taking this long to build. The more money you have the quicker these cars get built. Thats pretty much the bottom line. The great news is that I see road track time a couple times a year. I drive it there, beat the heck out of it, and drive it home. As a car builder thats the ultimate compliment. When you can do all that and still drive it home in one piece. Luckily i have a girlfriend thats into cars and she will see track time with her car for the first time in June. Cant wait!
We also dont have any kids. I spend mabey $2,000-$5,000 a year on my car but thats really pushing our budget. Thats all we have extra in a good year. Luckily I can do most of it myself. That saves tons of money in labor.

[fladoans]

I have a decent Job, wife and 1-16 year old son. My Camaro is the 2nd car I have done and for me it's a once in a life time deal. Been saving and working side jobs for 5 years and got a little money out of a refinance of the house a few years ago. All the money's in the bank and the wife has approved the build (or at least the build I told her about - seems being on this site has reduced how far my budget is going to go) :pat: . But, I'm doing all the work myself over a couple of years (I hope) and building my dream car. Basically no expense spared - not wasting money, but I am going to build what I want. Like CAMAROBOY69 said, I have the money so the build will be done quicker. But, I've got to get going and get it done before the next hurricane hits or my son starts college or I might have to spend the car budget somewhere else. Now my other car - the Chevelle was a budget build and nobdoy can know that looking at the car. And, I still get tremendous satisfation driving the car around. It's isn't always about the money - for me it's as much about doing the work myself.

[John McIntire]

Single, and unlimited overtime, can write my own paycheck every week. Basically comes down to how bad do you want it. I'll work 60 to 70+ hours a week to be able to afford things. Oh and stay focused, I drive a Honda Civic every day, because I commute 36 miles one way to work, and sold my motorcycle so I would'nt get caught up throwing money into that thing too!
John

[Jagarang]

I'll work 60 to 70+ hours a week to be able to afford things. Oh and stay focused,John

Like he says, but I'm longer winded!



I make pretty good money now....about $30/hr

During a large portion of my build I was making in the low to mid 20's/hr.

I've been working between 65 and 72 hrs a week at two jobs(read no overtime) for about 10 years now. Granted I have a wife, 3 kids in private schools, a mortgage, new cars, and all the things that come along with them.

I honestly have spread the build across a very long time table. Taken out several loans and just plain refused to GIVE UP!

I'm not in to ugly of a place financially now. Two new car loans, me and wifey. A mortgage which is actually an asset. A few thousand in CC debt.

1988.
Bought car
Replaced motor(350) and drove the car until 1992 when an
electrical gremlin killed it.

1991-1993 Full-Time student
Got a Degree in Radiologic Technology(X-Ray Technologist)
Car sat under my dads mango tree
Making $17/hr as Xray tech

1993-1998
I tore the car down in the evenings after work and started planning and purchasing parts.
1995-1997 Back to school for Diagnostic Medical Sonography
(Ultrasound Technologist). Full time student with 32-48 hours a
week in Xray job.
Graduated ultrasound school,s tarted at $18.50/hr, currently at
~$30
1995-1998 Car in First paint jail, work done was nightmarish

1998-2004
Crazy cash purged with "Professional" restoration shop. I even got a free calendar and pen every year.
The car made progress here with a TOTAL media blast, major panel replacements, front clip installation, motor rebuilt(botched), Mini-tubbing(botched) and sprayed with color(botched).
The basic work done seems to be holding up well.

2004-Current
Frank of Prodigy Customs re-doing mini-tub, paint, motor. Completely doing drive train install, interior install, stereo install, wiring, vintage air, basically everything from bare shell to running car.
Frank took over the nightmare and is making it right and getting it done. Finally!

June 3, 2006, POWER TOUR.

[trapin]

My wife and I make great money......but we were stupid with it.

If we had made better decisions earlier in our lives I'd be tooling around in one of these "super cars" as we speak.

Instead, I'm up in the bleachers with the rest of the low dollar builds. But you know what...that's not such a bad thing. We're a pretty sizeable fraternity and I really think we accurately represent what Pro-Touring is truely about; DIY (do it yourself). Because we lack the funds to job everything out, a lot of us dig in and get our hands dirty slowly building these cars in our own garages. But then again isn't that what hot rodding is essentially? Scraped and bruised knuckles, grease under the fingernails, beer bottles all strewn about a disorganized garage. That's the hot roddin' I'm familiar with. Our cars might not be as glamorous as the cover cars you see in PHR, but there's something to be said for the dedication and commitment that went into them. Check out Mark Mutert's Nova. That guy built that entire car on his own steam. It might lack the sexy parts like the aftermarket suspension, twin turbos, LSX engine...but then it didn't need any of that crap anyway.

Rest easy my friend....you're in good company.:cheers:

[Bill Howell]

My deal is no secret. Melinda and I don't have kids at home. Both of mine are grown. Last year I sold a piece of property and used that as seed money for the goat. Then, I sold some other toys that were just sitting around, 69 matching numbers camaro, 01 Harley, pontoon boat......
Now instead of three or four things with insurance, I have the goat. Like everyone else, I went way over budget, but still have a decent car alot cheaper than its market value.
My best advise is not to get hung up on anyone else's budget or car. Build what you like and can afford. If it takes 4-5 years, so be it. Financial responsibility to yourself and your family is much more important than a toy and lets all face it, our cars are our toys. I consider myself as one of the average guys, just at my age, I have passed some of the expenses some of the younger guys face weekly. Just hang in there, and enjoy the experience. It will no longer be fun if you get over your head and budget and you will regret that. Honestly, the building is the most fun. It is kinda of a let down once you "finish".

[Steve1968LS2]

I think it's just deceiving. The crazy cars get all the attention. So it looks like all the cars are crazy. But in reality, most members have much more modest vehicles. Also, many (most?) guys spread the total cost across a number of years. It's kinda like paying off a new car only in reverse--pay now, drive later.

Also, in many cases old projects are sold to finance new ones..

For example.. I sold my 2000 SS to fund my '69 and the '69 was sold to fund the '68..

This same topic could be applied to guys who buy speed boats and jet skis and ATVs and any other higher cost "toys"..

[fladoans]

Honestly, the building is the most fun. It is kinda of a let down once you "finish".

Boy ain't that the truth!

[trapin]

Honestly, the building is the most fun. It is kinda of a let down once you "finish".

That's probably why Stielow parts with his cars soon after he's done with them. I think the "building" part is what gets his motor turning...not the "owning" part.

Honestly though...I expect to be quite exhausted when this car is done. I have other priorities though; I want a boat again...I miss my boat. Once that's paid off then I'll do another car. We're probably looking at another 10 years before the next project.

[Clean Cut Creations]

I don't want this to sound like I am being a smart ass but I see the one-upmanship in EVERY hobby. Who's got the bigger boat, who's boat has the most engines, who has the biggest party, who has the biggest house, who has the most expensive golf clubs.... for god sake WHO HAS THE COOLEST GOLF CART!! (I only say this 'cause I've painted some cool golf carts for way too much money for rich customers) What I'm getting at is I have no idea where the money comes from either! Get this: I CAN'T AFFORD THE CUSTOMER'S CARS THAT I BUILD!!!!! Do you think that makes me crazy? Its the bigger, badder, better, mentality that seems to drive this sport and every sport/hobby to the next level.
Think the caveman who invented the wheel thought he was cool? How cool did he feel when another caveman with more resources, time and cash took that idea and applied it to move stuff around and then flew past him one day in a wagon! :slap:
We build on each other's ideas and there are a small group of people that are on the cutting edge of EVERY hobby that seem to push the "little guy" back a bit mentally. Please don't try to keep up with the JONESES.....Enjoy whatever hobby that makes you smile and just use their pocketbook and their unafordable ideas to try to make your ride better.

DON'T LET THE "BIG GUYS" GET TO YA!

[Payton King]

There are some big buck cars but plenty of budget ones as well. You can move from cars to houses to whatever you would like to choose.

Someone will always have more money, bigger house, meaner dog or a better looking wife....or the coolest PT car, for the month. It is about finding what fits you and your budget and enjoying every second of it.

I am sure that your car will be the coolest thing in town when you are driving around. What people loose site of is there a a huge concentration of PT folks on this board from all over the county, but probably not many live close to you. Here is an example, some people say that they are tired TT II's on a 69 Camaro. How many 69's or TT II's on anything do you see in a week or a month where you live? TT II's will make a big an impact on the casual person as a $4000 set of Fikse would.

I am deep into my project, money and time wise. I will be proud when it is done. If I had it to do over again I would have been driving my car for the last 4 years and doing small things like I had planned instead of loosing my focus and going for the "golden ring."

Sorry to ramble on but a car hobby is expensive. Don't loose site of the fun because you don't have the latest and greatest new part to hit the market. It is about self expression, friendships and therapy for everyday life.

[ProdigyCustoms]

There must be damn good money in building houses. I do the majority of my business with contractors, home builders, constrution, owners. Seems like eveyone I deal with, when i ask what they do? oh, i build houses, or I build roads, or I build............... All i can tell ya is money is loose right now in this hobby. I have to personally thank Jesse James and Craig Jackson. Jesse for making car and bike shows cool, it all started with motorcycle mania, the OCC, the American Hot Rod and Overhaulin, and now everything else, and Craig for putting this in front of everyone

Me, I build cars and still can't afford this ****!

[Neil B]

Here are some examples of some of my 'creative' funding over the years:

- 23 years old, I was working out of town and saved my per diems to buy a Paxton supercharger. I ate a lot of noodles.

- 26 years old, I sold my first wife's engagement ring and put a custom roll cage in my Mustang road racer. Don't ask.

- 26-29 years old, I worked on out of town assignments and lived rent-free. I used my newfound discretionary income to fund several road race seasons and an occasional Grand-Am Cup ride. I had no home, but I fulfilled a dream.

- 30 years old, I bought my '69 Z28 with the proceeds from my race car and a lil' help from my friend JJ Best.

My point is that, in my 20's, I would do whatever it took to feed my passion. If it meant enough to me, I always found a way. I've since moved from CA to Florida and started a business and I no longer have to beg, borrow, and make other tradeoffs. I say this because I remember those days when I didn't know how I was going to do it and that's what I most vividly remember - it was hard and there was sacrifice and that's what made the memory.

[dgumoe]

i dont have any money. my car gets parts when i sell stuff i've aqquired over the years. i bought ONE new seat from summit after i sold my autometer gages. i bought my new shifter cause i sold the old one and some doors i had sitting in the shop. basically if i cant afford it it doesnt get purchased. thats why i gave up on the PT thing. i knew what i wanted and knew it would be 10 years before the car ever hit the road. so with a VERY charitable donation from my father, I.e race motor, nine inch rear, torque converter. I'm going drag racing again. the next car will be PT for sure, but for now i'm happy to be hitting the strip again.

[nitrorocket]

My car is fairly cheap. The problem is that very few people actually do there own work, as in motor build, trans build, rear build, make control arms, etc.

When you buy "KITS" whether it is a brake kit, suspension, rear end motor, or whatever, you pay a premium with labor and retail on parts.

I have one of the "higher end" cars around, and the whole thing costs less then what people pay for a TT motor!

All I am saying is do EVERYTHING yourself and anyone can have a nice ride. Alot of the super nice magazine cars were built at a custom shop by someone at the expense of the owner of the car. Those must be the doctors and scientists!

I am a single income family with 3 cars and a dog!:jump:

[Nine Ball]

I tend to buy cars that are in high demand (collectible models, rare special editions, etc...) at low prices. Then I modify them and enjoy them for a while, and sell them for a decent profit. I haven't "lost" money on a car sale in over 6 years now. Then I just roll those funds/profits into the next project car.

snowball effect, haha.

I'm far from being rich, but a college education and a good job with six-figure income definitely helps fund this hobby. I grew up broke, and can appreciate things even better now.

Tony

[rolltide]

There are indeed some fantastic cars parading around this site. And many of them involved A LOT of cash.

I'm currently disassembling, cleaning, and planning my build. My research was terribly confused by listening to the high end mumbo jumbo thrown around by some big spenders. While I'm still terribly confused (and probably always will be) :rolleyes: , I have come to a realization: I don't necessarily want to build my car like these high dollar cars. And my priorities wouldn't allow me to anyway.

That being said, some VERY GOOD research has been completed by some of the professional builders, sponsors, and PT nuts on this forum. And it is their data that I'm using to make the decisions about where to spend and where to cut. Their advice flows freely and knuckleheads who don't know what they're talking about are quickly squelched. I love this site!

There's a lot of normal car guys around here. A FEW of them also happen to have a bunch of money. Oh yea - some of these guys are a blast to hang around with too (filthy rich ones included). YOE was TOO COOL!

Terry

[rocketman]

well both my wife and myself make excellent money.
i have my main job,work in a friends machine building race engine's.when they get behind,which always me to build all my engines and get parts at cost.i do side jobs,like paint cars,do chassis work.etc
but i dont get to do everything when i want,i have 3 kids and they have there own activities,son plays baseball,girl's dance,so the car isnt the first on the list.last year we skipped most of the car shows for disneyworld trip.

[dropit69]

my project has been sitting waiting for a lump sum to go crazy on it..with my dads advice i bought my house when i was 21..(thought my dad was nuts..lol)paid 20k put 3 years and all my checks in it but now its worth 140k and its all paid for..so all my checks from work go to the bank to save..i quit going out and partying after i got divorced and no kids to fund..im 34 now and have 5 vehicles total all paid for..after i sell 2 of the cars i bought cheap and will profit on the camaro gets ripped apart ....wohooo hit the 500 mark in posts too..this place is so addictive

[chicane67]

My biggest thing is being fanatical about debt, or lack their of. Never buy toys on credit and it keeps the monthly expenses down to a minimum. Well other than buying property in SoCal that is :scared:

Most people here appreciate the blood, sweat, and hours of hard work in a normal car a lot more than a one off custom where the only "work" by the owner involved was signing the american express slip.

My exact sentiments. Cash and carry..... and let the equity work for you. Blood, sweat and tears will give you a sense of pride that money can never buy.

[Damn True]

I'm a part time pirate

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Yo, ho, ho, ho a pirates life for me!
Yaarrrggghh matey!

[67LS1T56]

I think it's just deceiving. The crazy cars get all the attention. So it looks like all the cars are crazy. But in reality, most members have much more modest vehicles. Also, many (most?) guys spread the total cost across a number of years. It's kinda like paying off a new car only in reverse--pay now, drive later.


Thats how I did it, I have been spending for 5 years now. Almost complete .Need a windshield and a rear bumper.

[nancejd]

Personally, I've sold most of my organs, and I'm down to only 1/2 cup of blood.

[zbugger]

What money? I usually just steal my parts.

[Restomod]

I am a male prostiute

[The Rook]

I'm a DINC. . . Dual Income Nice Camaro (he he he I had to do it, and it's not that nice). The best I've found so far is to sell all the crappy drum brakes and monoleafs taken off of my car to the "All Original" resto freaks for a nice little profit to spend on real goodies.

[southernfriedcj]

There must be damn good money in building houses. I do the majority of my business with contractors, home builders, constrution, owners. Seems like eveyone I deal with, when i ask what they do? oh, i build houses, or I build roads, or I build...............

I build houses and develop real estate. If you have access to raw land that has development potential, I can make you enough money to build a high dollar car. Basically, you bring me the lead on the land, I pay you $500 per lot (residential)when I close the land. To date the bigest finders fee I've paid is $406,000.(812 lots) Example: you bring me a lead on a piece of dirt, I get 200 lots out of it, when I close(buy) the dirt you get $100,000. That's a start to a pretty decent car. If you don't mind delayed gratification, you can waive the finder's fee, and stay in the deal for 25% of the profit.
Anybody have some family land? Does a friend have land? Does your neighbor want to sell his farm? As long as it's not already on the market, it's fair game(I don't want a piece that's already been stepped on or listed with an agent, or advertised for sale).
Anybody with a lead is welcome to send me a PM. I don't mind giving advice either.:secret:

Jim

[mikey]

I'm a body tech by trade so I do side jobs. Cash or barter depends on what deal can be worked out. I also haul off the scrap metal $1500 a month for steel and $1000 twice a year for a trailer load of aluminum. I also hit the swap meets and buy package deal stuff that I sell or trade for parts I need. The trick is to buy what you need along with something you can easily trade or sell cheap enough to give some one a deal and break even or close. I've ended up with alot of parts real cheap this way. BTW I've been building my camaro for 17 years.

[jeff s]

Online stock trading. The 54% I made on my portfolio in 2001, funded my Ultima GTR build.
Now I'm building cars, barely making money, but having loads of fun.
I did make some dough on Best Buy 1st quarter though.
My tip: buy on bad news sell on good news.

[Bill Howell]

I saved a ton on my car insurance by switching to GEICO

[mikey]

I saved a ton on my car insurance by switching to GEICO

That was good:lol:

[muthstryker]

I build houses and develop real estate. If you have access to raw land that has development potential, I can make you enough money to build a high dollar car. Basically, you bring me the lead on the land, I pay you $500 per lot (residential)when I close the land. To date the bigest finders fee I've paid is $406,000.(812 lots) Example: you bring me a lead on a piece of dirt, I get 200 lots out of it, when I close(buy) the dirt you get $100,000. That's a start to a pretty decent car. If you don't mind delayed gratification, you can waive the finder's fee, and stay in the deal for 25% of the profit.
Anybody have some family land? Does a friend have land? Does your neighbor want to sell his farm? As long as it's not already on the market, it's fair game(I don't want a piece that's already been stepped on or listed with an agent, or advertised for sale).
Anybody with a lead is welcome to send me a PM. I don't mind giving advice either.:secret:

Jim

do you build spec homes? 812 lots holy shiiit.. im sort of in training to build and sell houses also right now im actually doing excavation learning on the machines.

[LoPro67]

I am on my 3rd voluntary trip to Iraq. The first two deployments were in the Army (Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom I) totaling 5 times now. Now I am a Department of Defense contractor. Same risk and crappy living conditions, but the pay and benefits are out of this world. I encur NO living expenses while I am "deployed".

This is what I am willing to endure to provide enough $$$ to fund my passion. The down side is that I am happily married and have a 3 y/o daughter. I get to come home a total of a month a year. Otherwise, I am dodging bullets and riding the lightning. I consider it my "overtime" of being away from my family. Now when folks look at the extent of my project (read: $100k+ in less than a year) and that I had to pay a professional to do my car while I was away playing mercenary, so it would be ready by the time I get back home, that is the cross I have to bare.

Of course I make enough money each month to make sure my family is taken care of first. They want for nothing (except me to be home more). I just didn't want to paint the picture that I was in Iraq to fund the car, but it does make it more tolerable.

[vanzuuk1]

I spend too much of my income on the car, I need to stop so I can get out of the house we rent and buy something.

I bought a painted running car to save money and time, my car has cost less than a new mustang.

I also had a few friends that really helped me so I could save on labor costs. GsxrKen has helped me out, Steevo has helped me make some good choices on used stuff, and My friend John has spent a lot of time wrenching on my car.

And I eat a lot of falafel sandwiches for lunch, wear modest clothes and dont drink.

[southernfriedcj]

do you build spec homes? 812 lots holy shiiit.. im sort of in training to build and sell houses also right now im actually doing excavation learning on the machines.

We are a tract home builder(we build entire subdivisions). The 812 lot subdivision will be broken up into 6 smaller subdivisions and a few will be sold to other developers. We are putting the 3 mile boulevard through the middle of the land, the 10 acre amenity package, and the 550,000 square foot pedestrian mall.
The largest subdivison that we have developed and built on our own is 306 lots. We paid a finder's fee on that one also.
The good deals are hard to find and hard to fund for most folks. A great way to break into the game is by finding a couple deals and straying in one after you build up a bankroll. Then you're off to the races.

www.whiteoakhomesinc.com (http://www.whiteoakhomesinc.com)
www.georgia-traditions.com (http://www.georgia-traditions.com)

We are in the process of redoing White Oak's site, and we don't have a site for our development company, although we are planning an "umbrella" site to encompass development and single deal entitys like Georgia Traditions.

Jim

[65chevelleboys]

My father when he was alive said to us boys.Why should i pay someone to work on my house or car when i have four boys with strong hands and backs that can do the work. I work hard the work on my car is slow do to money.But my three boys 10 12 and 14 like our 65 chevelle. And so does my wife. Thats what matters.

[speedster]

My father when he was alive said to us boys.Why should i pay someone to work on my house or car when i have four boys with strong hands and backs that can do the work. I work hard the work on my car is slow do to money.But my three boys 10 12 and 14 like our 65 chevelle. And so does my wife. Thats what matters.

Very True. It is important to do stuff for the family. :cool: Unless you are single they ARE involved. My kids play on the car's rollcage like a jungle gym. (Well at least until an interior is put back in). My 7 year old helped me assemble the front suspension. It's amazing how easy it is for them to start a hard-to-reach nut with their little hands.

[syborg tt]

i work 2 jobs like most of the guy's on this bb. I also sold one of my past vehicles so i can finish my project. I am also selling all the parts i'v ecollected over the years. In the end i'll most likely run out of money and hair. But man am i having fun.

[63SW]

I agree , being financially responsible is a top priority ( although i dont always follow that rule )
Its so easy to built up debt , especially in todays society where credit card companies will give cards out like candy.
All those bright shiny cool car parts are so easy to get and you dont feel the hurt till later ...Been there and done that before.

we have no kids at home - all grown and on thier own .
we do have a mortgage but it is minimal .
we made some decent investments .
and i pick up cars now and then just to sell for a profit when i can .

thanks God i have someone like Jeanne (my girlfriend of 18 years ) in my life who loves cars like i do.
She loves going to the cruise-ins , LOVES TO DRAG RACE especially when i let her race the car, and NEVER complains about me bringing home another car.
She used to complain but one time she found a camaro for me and i bought it just to sell , when i sold it i gave her $ 500 for a finders fee ...NOW SHE TELLS ME ALL THE TIME ABOUT CARS SHE FINDS ..LOL

If you can afford to spend BIG bucks , go for it , IF you can't , take your time and enjoy the process.

Like Bill said , the process of building the car is the most fun !
When its done , and all the congrats are given , the only thing to do is keep it pollished and insured ....

[shmoov69]

Wow! I am truley impressed!:twothumbs That the bulk of the ones that responded don't have gobs of debt! I thought that I was one of the few people that don't have credit cards and try to pay everything off! That is the only way to get ahead in this hobby. But then again I am the guy "with the 69 Camaro with TTII's"!!:moon: But seriously, when I got them, they weren't even released to the public yet in the 17" size, so they were 'cutting edge'!! LOL!:ripped:
But like was said earlier, pay now, finish later. That way if you run out of money, it can sit until funds are available, it's not eating anything! Do as much as humanly possible yourself and with friends. Married without kids for 10 years to a chic that loves the hobby is a plus! Being a tightwad, well lets say frugal! about things And having the car for 16 years doesn't hurt either! GOD has definately blessed us beyond our worth also!
BTW- I haven't seen Charlie or SW respond yet, where did you guys gain your fortune? Just curious, you can tell me that it is none of my friggin' business also, it is alright!:twothumbs

[MSchu]

Money? Whats that? I bought my '68 Camaro as a project 4 years ago when I was a senior in high school, now I'm a senior in college. My dad and I have done all the bodywork and painted or repaired all the parts that are going back on it during the summers. Thats what saved me the most money. Like shmoov69 said, its paid for, sits in my dad's shop, and is ready for me to throw new parts at it when I get a real job. Its the best investment I've made thanks to muscle car prices skyrocketing.

[Payton King]

I happen to love that look. I have a 69 and my friend wanted my TT II's more than I did.

[BonzoHansen]

I had to sit out for a few years due to school/career change/wedding/house/kid #1/kid #2. I really now have no bills other than mortgage, daycare & my wife’s car, and daycare cuts in half in August. I even sold my 82 Trans Am (which I still miss to this day). Priorities, I suppose. I bought the 67 right before I met my wife (see below), and it is waiting for its turn in line (it will be a cruiser, not a PT car). I bought my 77 last summer to drive around while I work on the 67. Now the frame is in my back yard. Damn oil leak. :)

Generally, here is what I found that helps me out (this coming from a guy no longer in any auto related business, so a ‘normal’ guy):

1. Tools are a giant cost that if you can spread it out, good, plus they often have more than one use. It’s easier to slowly accumulate over the years rather than buy them when you need them. Even if they aren’t all Snap-On quality. But certain tools you shouldn’t scrimp on (1/2” impact gun, 3/8” ratchet, vise-grips, 6 point sockets, for instance). But you don’t need a $2500 Snap-On toolbox. Craftsmen boxes are fine, used are even better. Hell, I even have some old dresser drawers where I keep little used stuff. Swap meets are good for tools, both used & new. My tool & supply (like 3m roloc discs) spending probably outweighs my part spending at swap meets 2:1.

2. Don’t ‘need’ the newest stuff. Don’t keep up with the Jones. This is a big deal. Repeat this line three times everyday.

3. Finding a car that is in half decent shape is a major advantage. The 77 I got has good (not great, but very passable) paint, and most importantly, new GM quarters. Solid starting position.

4. Do it yourself: pros cost money. This is a no brainer, but bears re-mentioning.

5. Have a daily driver, even if it is a POS, so you can take your time on the ‘real’ car. This also helps with #4.

6. Have a plan (at least a general target) and try your best to stick to it; it will prevent you from buying parts you don’t want/need. I know the 77 will eventually be more of a PT car, but not right away. The UCA bushings were beat, so I bought arms from SC&C; seemed foolish to rebuild them, given my plan. The 67 will be more of a restoration, restification, whatever term you like for a cruiser. If the 67 needed UCA bushings, I’d just get bushings, likely rubber ones. Which leads me to #7.

7. Don’t buy parts you don’t need. I also do not buy parts too early. It hurts cash flow, and if your plans change, you can be stuck. If I can’t use them in the next 6-9 months, I don’t buy them. Unless it is a spanking deal I won’t lose money on if I later sell (like non-repopped parts). Careful on eBay and the swap meet sections of sites like this – impulse buying is dangerous to the wallet.

8. Have a household budget, at least enough of one so you know when you can buy parts. The flexible spending account (daycare) refund I get every January bought the 77 last year and is targeted for my TKO-600 next winter. And I get a tax break for the account. Woo-hoo.

9. Pick & choose what costs to control. I bring my lunch to work almost everyday. That saves me about $30-40 a week. That is about $1700 a year. That is most of my 77 budget for the year.

10. Save cash whenever possible. Your circumstances direct your luck. The guys who find barn cars have cash in their pocket. They made their luck good. If I had found a barn car 4 years ago, I would have had to pass due to funds. I made my luck bad. But last year I got my 77 for $3500. Not a barn find, but I dare anyone to find one as nice for the same price anymore, or even then. The cash I saved made my luck good.

11. Stay single or marry a supportive spouse. Kids can dampen the thing for a while too. :P

12. Don't be afraid to ask friends for help. But be ready to help them at any time as well.


- 26 years old, I sold my first wife's engagement ring and put a custom roll cage in my Mustang road racer. Don't ask.Ha! I bought the 67 with engagement ring money (never got a ring – girl long gone). One of my better choices.

[colt zantop]

funny you mention snap on tools and a craftsman box....thats exaclty what I did! snap on boxes are rediculous and I had a 50% discount on them. craftsman roller bearing chests are just as nice and bigger and cheaper!

[BonzoHansen]

I tell you , for home use, I don't even see the advantage of ball bearing drawers (I have one of each)

[Gonzostyle]

Wait! no one else has a money tree in their yard? I just go harvest some money when I need it....

Actually I wasted a lot of money when I had a great income. The telecom bubble burst took care of my great income, so I am doing everything on an OK income.

My money comes from careful planning and trying to stick to the original objective. Also doing a lot of the work myself helps tremendouly. I have a mortgage and a serious girlfriend in a different state, so both of those take up a lot of the disposable income, but some how I am managing to build a couple cars (yes at the same time)....

[muthstryker]

or you can all be like me, live with mom and dad (im 16 :P) work full time and dont have to pay for bills so alll your money goes to your car :)

[Larry Callahan]

It's not that hard when you spread the cost of building out over 10 years. Not being able to drive it for a decade really sucks though.

[white79bu]

First I am a newlywed. Wife and I have been married for one year May 7th. We are both 23 almost 24. We bought our first house almost two years ago. I am just your average working man. I just got offerd a very good job for a local township and am in the process of getting on with the local major police department. I am just starting to make good money. The wife just started a good job last month. It will take a couple years for the mony to start coming. We are very good with our money. We both work over and I detail cars on the side. This past few years our money has been eaten buy the house but it will all come back to us. We save a good amount of money every year. Because we are debt free except for house and cheap car payment. I use my detail money for the car and have to do everything on a budget. We are very fortunate for what we have at our age. There is no secret just hard work and serious money management here. Andy

[Madspeed]

I as well had a god job making 28.00 an hour.I would have the opportunity to work 19 to 20 hour days 7 days a week.
Those extra $$ went into my Camaro project.
4 years later im only 30k into the project and need 40 to 60 more.
I have been a car tech for over 20 years. i use those skills to work after hours and make extra cash.
I have a mtg 2 car payments and 2 kids + a father to support on one income.
I want to break into this markett as well but I HAVE to get my car done as it is my Buisiness card. (takes money to make money)

Use your skills at whatever you can to make side cash and plan on the project taking time and patientce. The more you can do yourself the more you can save.

use PT site to ask questions and find sources.

My skills are your skills feel free to pm or email me with anny questions you might have I am shure everyone here is willing to give you there input as well. (this goes for all of ya as well)

Gl. Ken F

[dougs68ss]

man, i remember those days living with mom and dad at 16 yrs old, spending everything on your car.that was sweet! well most of us have other bills now but after all these years at 47 years old, weve got our finances squared away where we can drop a nice chunk of cash on our cars without going into financial ruin. i probablly spend 8000 bucks ayear on my car and it will never be a magazine cover car . killer ride? yes! fun? yes! im a wallcovering contractor and do well, but i like to spend my excess on my car. more enjoyment than watching your money in your iras , trust funds etc. its an addiction so be it!

[kmcanally]

You mean I am not the only one that took longer than 10 years (and counting) to build his car! They will never be done anyways. Mine does actually drive now, but only in the hood. There is this great little downhill twisty between the clubhouse and #10...


It's not that hard when you spread the cost of building out over 10 years. Not being able to drive it for a decade really sucks though.