[MRM]

I once represented a guy who had founded and then sold a national TBA chain several years earlier. I learned a bit about the industry from him. I think you'd be much happier looking at that type of property. There's a good markup on tires and you can deal directly with the manufacturers. If you keep a neat store in a good location you're likely to do well. The secret is to do just the easy repairs - tires, spark plugs, oil, brakes, etc. That way your overhead is lower and the customer turnover is faster.

The best way to buy an existing business is to go through a broker. Any business you find for sale in some internet posting is not likely to be a good prospect. Location is almost always the key once you settle on your concept. Hire a business consultant to write a business plan for you. It's like hiring an architect to design a building - the extra expertise more than makes up for any initial expense.