How much does it cost to open a car wash service? What are the main expenses? Can we still do it with a low budget? Which expenses are unnecessary?
This guide will provide you with essential information to assess how much it really takes to embark on this journey.
And if you need more detailed information please check our business plan for a car wash service and financial plan for a car wash service.
How much does it cost to open a car wash?
What is the average budget?
Starting a car wash service typically requires an investment ranging from $25,000 to $400,000 or more.
The primary factors influencing this cost include:
The location of your car wash plays a significant role in the overall cost. Renting or purchasing land in a high-traffic area will generally be more costly than in less populated areas.
The type of car wash you choose to open also greatly affects your budget. A basic hand wash setup requires less investment compared to a fully automated car wash system. For instance, an automated car wash system can cost anywhere from $100,000 to $250,000.
Regarding the budget per square meter, you can expect to pay around $1,200 to $4,500 per sqm for a car wash, depending on the type and location.
Construction and customization of the car wash facility are other significant expenses. This can range from moderate costs for a simple setup to high costs for a state-of-the-art facility.
Legal costs for obtaining necessary permits and licenses can vary by location but typically range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Initial supplies and equipment, like cleaning agents, towels, and brushes, may require an initial investment of a few thousand dollars.
Marketing and promotional activities, including signage and digital marketing, can also add to the initial costs. A basic marketing budget could be a few thousand dollars.
Is it possible to start a car wash with minimal investment?
Yes, it is possible, but it requires a more modest approach.
To minimize costs, one might start with a mobile car wash service. This eliminates the need for a fixed location, significantly reducing the initial investment.
You can use a personal vehicle equipped with essential car wash supplies like portable pressure washers, cleaning agents, and towels. This might cost around $2,000 to $5,000.
Since it's a mobile service, you avoid the high costs of property rental or purchase and facility construction.
Marketing can be done through social media and local advertising, which may only require a few hundred dollars.
In this minimal scenario, the initial investment might be as low as $5,000 to $15,000.
However, this approach has limitations in terms of scalability and service offerings. As your business grows, you can invest in more advanced equipment or even transition to a permanent location.
Finally, if you want to determine your exact starting budget, along with a comprehensive list of expenses customized to your project, you can use the financial plan for a car wash service.
What are the expenses to open a car wash?
Please note that you can access a detailed breakdown of all these expenses and also customize them for your own project in the financial plan for a car wash service.
The expenses related to the location of your car wash service
For a car wash service, choosing a location with high vehicle traffic is essential. Ideal locations include near busy roads, shopping centers, or residential areas. Monitoring the area at various times can help understand the traffic flow.
The site should be visible and accessible to drivers. Locations with good signage potential and easy access from main roads or highways are preferable. Adequate parking space is also important.
Additionally, consider the proximity to water sources and drainage facilities, as these are crucial for a car wash operation.
If you decide to rent the space for your car wash
Estimated budget: between $2,500 and $7,000
Renting a space for your car wash includes initial costs like security deposits and possibly the first month's rent.
Typically, a security deposit, usually one or two months' rent, is required. This deposit, often refundable, is to cover damages or non-payment.
For instance, if your monthly rent is $1,500, you might need to pay $3,000 initially for the security deposit and the first month's rent. Budget for the next three months' rent, amounting to $4,500.
Understanding the lease terms, including its duration and rent increase conditions, is crucial. Legal fees for lease review can range from $400 to $900.
Real estate broker services, if used, may incur fees, but typically, the landlord or property owner covers these.
If you decide to buy the space for your car wash
Estimated budget: between $80,000 and $500,000
The cost of the property varies based on size, location, condition, and market conditions, typically ranging from $40,000 (for a small car wash in a rural area) to $450,000 (for a large facility in a city).
Include closing costs, like legal fees, title searches, title insurance, and loan origination fees. These costs range from $4,000 to $15,000.
Renovation costs to accommodate car wash operations should also be budgeted, typically 10-15% of the purchase price, or between $8,000 and $75,000.
Professional services for property assessment can cost up to $3,500.
Property taxes, based on location, typically range from 3% to 12% of the property's value, equating to $2,400 to $60,000 annually.
Property insurance costs, varying by size and location, can range from $150 to $1,500 per month.
Is it better to rent or to buy a physical space for your car wash?
Renting offers lower initial costs, more location flexibility, and less maintenance responsibility, but lacks equity potential and may lead to increasing rents.
Buying provides ownership, stable monthly payments, and tax benefits, but requires a significant initial investment and maintenance costs.
The decision should be based on your financial situation, long-term goals, and local market conditions.
Here is a summary table to help you.
| Aspect | Renting a Car Wash Space | Buying a Car Wash Space |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Costs | Lower upfront investment | Higher upfront cost |
| Location Flexibility | Easier to test locations | Fixed location |
| Maintenance Responsibility | Landlord typically handles | Owner responsible |
| Quick Startup | Faster to get started | Lengthy acquisition process |
| Customization | Limited control | Full control and customization |
| Stability and Branding | Less stable, less branding | Greater stability, stronger branding |
| Tax Benefits | Possible deductions | Tax advantages |
| Asset for Financing | Limited collateral | Valuable collateral |
| Market Risk | Easier to adapt to changes | Subject to market fluctuations |
| Long-Term Investment | No long-term equity | Potential for equity buildup |
| Monthly Expenses | Ongoing rent payments | Mortgage payments and expenses |
Equipments, furniture and interior design
Estimated Budget: at least $100,000
Starting a car wash service requires investing in high-quality equipment to ensure efficiency and customer satisfaction. The most critical investment is the car wash system itself.
Automatic car wash systems, which include conveyor and in-bay automatics, can cost between $80,000 to $150,000 depending on the technology and customization. Touchless systems, offering a scratch-free wash, range from $40,000 to $100,000.
For a balanced approach, consider a touchless system for sensitive car finishes and an automatic system for a quick, thorough clean. The investment is significant, but the return in terms of service speed and quality justifies the cost.
Pressure washers are essential for manual wash areas. A commercial-grade pressure washer costs around $1,000 to $5,000, varying with power and features. An industrial vacuum cleaner, necessary for interior cleaning, ranges from $200 to $2,000.
Water recycling systems, crucial for environmental sustainability and operational cost reduction, can cost between $10,000 and $50,000. Investing in a good system ensures compliance with environmental regulations and can reduce water costs significantly.
Drying systems, including blowers and air dryers, are important for a spot-free finish. These can range from $5,000 to $30,000, depending on the system's capacity and efficiency.
For customer convenience, a point-of-sale (POS) system with payment processing capabilities is essential. A good POS system can cost between $1,000 and $10,000, depending on the features like membership management and reporting tools.
Now, let's discuss some additional but optional equipment.
For detailing services, a polishing machine, priced around $500 to $2,000, can add value to your service but is not essential initially. An upholstery cleaner, which costs between $1,000 to $4,000, is useful for a full-service car wash.
In prioritizing your budget, invest more in the car wash system and water recycling system, as these are crucial for your core services and environmental responsibility.
Opt for durable and efficient systems in these areas to minimize downtime and maintenance costs.
For secondary equipment like vacuums and POS systems, mid-range options can be sufficient. Be cautious with the cheapest options, as they may result in higher long-term costs due to repairs and inefficiency.
Remember, starting a car wash service is about balancing your budget with the quality of equipment. Prioritize essential, high-quality equipment, and then expand as your business grows and generates more revenue.
| Description | Estimated Cost |
| Car Wash System (Automatic) | $80,000 - $150,000 |
| Touchless Car Wash System | $40,000 - $100,000 |
| Pressure Washer | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| Industrial Vacuum Cleaner | $200 - $2,000 |
| Water Recycling System | $10,000 - $50,000 |
| Drying Systems | $5,000 - $30,000 |
| Point-of-Sale (POS) System | $1,000 - $10,000 |
| Polishing Machine (Optional) | $500 - $2,000 |
| Upholstery Cleaner (Optional) | $1,000 - $4,000 |
Marketing, Branding and Communication
Estimated Budget: $6,000 to $12,000 for the initial months of operation
In the dynamic world of car wash services, branding, marketing, and communication play a critical role in carving out a niche in a competitive market.
Branding for a car wash is about creating a distinctive image that permeates every aspect of your service. It's more than just a catchy name or a logo. It encompasses the overall customer experience, from the visual appeal of your wash bays to the efficiency and friendliness of your staff. It's about creating a space where customers feel their vehicles are treated with care and precision.
Do you want your car wash to be perceived as a high-end, luxury service or a quick, budget-friendly option? This decision influences everything from the layout of your facility to the uniforms your staff wear, and even the type of soap and wax you use.
Marketing for a car wash is your avenue to broadcast your services to the community. Relying solely on passing traffic isn't enough. Effective marketing strategies might include engaging social media posts showing before-and-after results of your washes, or partnerships with local businesses for cross-promotion. Local SEO is vital – you want to be the top result when someone searches for "best car wash near me".
However, focusing on local community engagement is more beneficial than broad, expensive advertising campaigns. Your primary audience is those within a convenient driving distance.
Communication in a car wash service is about building relationships with your customers. It could be the friendly greeting they receive upon arrival, or the satisfaction survey you send after their service. Excellent communication fosters a loyal customer base who not only return for your services but also recommend you to others.
When it comes to your marketing budget for a car wash, it's generally a modest percentage of your overall revenue, around 3% to 12%. Starting on the lower end as a new business is advisable.
Your budget should be strategically distributed. Consider investing in high-quality signage, an engaging and user-friendly website, and local community involvement like sponsoring a sports team or participating in community events. Also, consider loyalty programs or discount promotions to encourage repeat business.
Adjust your budget based on what works best. You might spend more initially for a significant launch event and then balance out to a consistent monthly investment. Pay attention to customer feedback and engagement metrics to determine where to allocate more funds.
Staffing and Management
Estimated Budget: $8,000 - $15,000 for the first month
Similar to any service-oriented business, the budget for staffing a car wash service varies based on the scale of operations, range of services offered, and hours of operation.
Starting simple is key.
Running a car wash service single-handedly is possible, but it’s a tough endeavor. It involves not only managing the washing and detailing of cars but also handling customer interactions and administrative tasks. Typically, it's more feasible to employ a small team to ensure efficient operations and personal well-being.
Essential roles in a car wash include car wash attendants for the actual cleaning and detailing of vehicles, and a customer service representative for front-end interactions. These positions are critical from the outset to maintain service quality and customer satisfaction. Depending on the size of your car wash and the services provided, you might also need a dedicated cashier or a maintenance worker.
As your car wash business expands, you may think about hiring additional staff like a site manager, marketing staff, or specialized detailers for high-end services. These roles are usually filled after the initial months once you have a better grasp of your business needs.
In terms of compensation, it is standard to pay employees from the beginning of their tenure. Delaying wages until the business is more established can lead to staff discontent and high turnover rates.
Beyond wages, budget for extra costs such as taxes, insurance, and employee benefits, which can increase overall staffing expenses by about 20-25%.
Training and development are also important in a car wash service, especially in areas like vehicle care techniques, customer service, and safety protocols. Initially, you may need to allocate funds for training your team in these areas.
This investment in training not only boosts the quality of your services but also aids in the long-term growth of your car wash. The training budget can vary, but reserving a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars, depending on the training's scope, is a sensible approach.
| Job Position | Average Salary Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Car Wash Attendant | $20,000 - $30,000 |
| Detailer | $25,000 - $35,000 |
| Manager | $35,000 - $50,000 |
| Customer Service Representative | $25,000 - $35,000 |
| Maintenance Technician | $30,000 - $40,000 |
| Marketing Specialist | $30,000 - $45,000 |
| Accountant | $40,000 - $60,000 |
Please note that you can access a detailed breakdown of all these expenses and also customize them for your own project in the financial plan for a car wash service.
Professional Services
Starting with a lawyer, for a car wash service, the focus isn't just on general business setup.
A lawyer can guide you through specific environmental regulations and permits essential for a car wash, such as water usage and waste disposal. They can also be instrumental in negotiating property leases, especially important for ensuring that zoning laws allow for a car wash facility. The cost for legal services can vary, but typically a car wash might spend approximately $3,000 to $6,000 initially.
Consultants for a car wash are invaluable if you're new to the industry.
They can provide insights on the most efficient layout for your car wash, advice on the best equipment to use, and strategies for water conservation and recycling. They might also assist in marketing strategies to attract and retain customers. The fees for a specialized car wash consultant can range from $100 to $300 per hour.
Banking services for a car wash are crucial for managing business finances and potentially securing loans for initial setup or expansion.
This includes setting up merchant services for processing customer payments, especially for automated or self-service car wash models. The costs for these banking services will depend on the bank and the specific services chosen.
Insurance for a car wash must cover unique risks like equipment damage, customer vehicle damage, and slip-and-fall accidents on the premises.
It's also wise to consider environmental liability insurance, given the use of chemicals and water. These insurance costs can vary significantly but might range from $2,000 to $10,000 annually, depending on the coverage and scale of the operation.
Additionally, for a car wash, regular maintenance and equipment upgrades are not just one-time expenses. To ensure the best service and adherence to environmental standards, continual investment in the latest car wash technologies and maintenance is essential. This represents a recurring cost but is vital for the efficiency, compliance, and customer satisfaction of your car wash service.
| Service | Description | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Lawyer | Guidance through environmental regulations, permits, and lease negotiations for a car wash. | $3,000 - $6,000 initially |
| Consultant | Advice on layout, equipment, water conservation, and marketing strategies for the car wash industry. | $100 - $300 per hour |
| Banking Services | Business finance management and merchant services for customer payments. | Varies based on services and bank |
| Insurance | Coverage for equipment damage, customer vehicle damage, accidents, and environmental liability. | $2,000 - $10,000 annually |
| Maintenance & Upgrades | Regular investment in maintenance and the latest car wash technologies for efficiency and compliance. | Recurring cost, amount varies |
Ongoing Emergency Funds
Estimated Budget: $5,000 to $30,000
When you're opening a car wash service, having an emergency fund is absolutely crucial.
It's like having a safety net when you dive into the world of automotive cleanliness; you hope you won't need it, but it's essential for your peace of mind and security.
The amount you should set aside can vary, but a common rule of thumb is to have enough to cover at least 3 to 6 months of your operating expenses. This typically translates into a range of $5,000 to $30,000, depending on the size and scale of your car wash service.
Remember, these figures can fluctuate based on your location, rent, utilities, employee salaries, and the cost of maintaining your car wash equipment and supplies.
One of the main reasons you need this fund is the unpredictability of cash flow in the car wash business. For example, you might face sudden fluctuations in customer traffic, equipment breakdowns, or unexpected maintenance costs, which can be quite expensive. These situations can significantly impact your cash flow if you're not prepared.
To avoid these potential challenges, it's wise to not only have an emergency fund but also to manage your car wash operations efficiently.
Overstaffing can lead to excess labor costs, while understaffing can result in poor customer service and lost business. Regularly reviewing and optimizing your staffing levels based on customer demand can help you avoid these pitfalls.
Additionally, building strong relationships with your equipment and supply vendors can be a lifesaver. Sometimes, they might be willing to offer discounts or extend flexible payment terms if you're in a tight spot, which can help with cash flow challenges.
Another key aspect is to keep a close eye on your finances. Regularly reviewing your financial statements helps you spot trends and address issues before they become major problems.
It's also a good idea to diversify your service offerings. For instance, if you're primarily offering exterior car washes, consider adding interior detailing, waxing, or subscription-based services to attract a broader customer base.
Lastly, never underestimate the power of excellent customer service and community engagement. Satisfied customers are more likely to return and refer others, providing you with a stable source of revenue and a positive reputation in your local market.
Franchise Fees
Estimated Budget: $30,000 to $100,000
Only if you decide to join a car wash franchise!
On average, you might expect to pay anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000 in franchise fees for a car wash service. However, these figures can vary based on the brand's reputation, location, and the level of support provided.
The franchise fee in the car wash industry is usually a one-time payment. This fee grants you the rights to operate your car wash business under the franchisor's established brand and gives you access to their proven business model, training, and support systems. Keep in mind that this is not the only financial commitment involved. There are ongoing expenses such as royalty fees, marketing contributions, and other operational costs.
Car wash franchises may have different fee structures. Some might require higher initial fees but lower ongoing expenses, while others could have the opposite arrangement.
Unfortunately, negotiating the franchise fee is typically uncommon, as these fees tend to be standardized for all franchisees within a specific brand.
However, there may be room for negotiation in other aspects of the franchise agreement, such as the contract duration or specific terms and conditions. Engaging with a franchise attorney or consultant can be valuable in understanding and potentially negotiating these terms.
Regarding the time it takes to recoup your investment and start generating profits, this can vary widely. It depends on factors like the location of your car wash, the demand for car wash services in your area, your business skills, and overall market conditions. Generally, it could take anywhere from a few years to several years to realize a profitable return on your investment in a car wash franchise.
Please note that you can access a detailed breakdown of all these expenses and also customize them for your own project in the financial plan for a car wash service.
What can car wash services save money on in their budget?
Managing expenses carefully is crucial for the success of your car wash service.
Some costs can be unnecessary, while others may be overspent on, and certain expenses can be delayed until your car wash is more established.
First and foremost, let's talk about unnecessary costs.
A common mistake car wash owners make is investing too much in high-end washing equipment and elaborate waiting areas right from the start. While quality service is vital, your initial customers will primarily be there for a good car wash, not luxurious amenities. You can begin with reliable, basic equipment and a simple, comfortable waiting area, focusing on the efficiency and quality of your service.
Another area where costs can be cut is in marketing. In today's digital age, there are cost-effective ways to promote your car wash.
Instead of expensive advertising campaigns, consider using social media, creating a website, and leveraging email marketing. These methods can be highly effective and budget-friendly.
Now, let's discuss expenses that car wash owners often overspend on.
One common pitfall is over-investing in a large variety of cleaning products and tools. It's important to start with a basic but effective range of products and expand as you understand customer needs and preferences. This approach helps manage inventory costs and prevents waste.
Also, be cautious with hiring too many staff members initially. While you need a dedicated team, overstaffing can inflate labor costs, particularly during slow periods. Start with a small team and scale up as your customer base grows.
When it comes to delaying expenses, one area to consider is expanding your service offerings. While it might be tempting to offer a wide range of services like detailing or specialized cleaning from the start, it's prudent to wait until there's a steady demand for these services. Expanding your offerings too soon can tie up funds that are needed elsewhere.
Another expense that can be postponed is upgrading to high-tech or automated systems. Begin with essential, reliable equipment and consider technological upgrades as your business grows and your budget allows. This strategy enables you to allocate funds more effectively and adapt to the market.
Examples of startup budgets for car wash services
To provide a clearer understanding, let's examine the budget for three different types of car wash services: a small, rural car wash with used equipment, a standard urban car wash offering a range of services, and a high-end, automated car wash with state-of-the-art equipment.
Small, Rural Car Wash with Used Equipment
Total Budget Estimate: $20,000 - $40,000
| Category | Budget Allocation | Example of Expenses |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment (Used) | $8,000 - $15,000 | Pressure washers, vacuums, water recycling system |
| Lease and Setup | $3,000 - $7,000 | Lease deposit, basic renovation, signage |
| Cleaning Supplies | $2,000 - $4,000 | Soaps, waxes, towels, brushes |
| Permits and Licenses | $1,000 - $2,000 | Business license, environmental permits |
| Marketing and Advertising | $1,000 - $3,000 | Local ads, business cards, flyers |
| Miscellaneous/Contingency | $5,000 - $9,000 | Unforeseen expenses, small equipment, utility setup |
Standard Urban Car Wash with Multiple Services
Total Budget Estimate: $40,000 - $80,000
| Category | Budget Allocation | Example of Expenses |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment (New and Efficient) | $20,000 - $35,000 | High-quality pressure washers, vacuums, detailing tools |
| Lease and Renovation | $10,000 - $20,000 | Prime location lease, professional signage, customer waiting area |
| Cleaning Supplies | $4,000 - $8,000 | Quality soaps, waxes, microfiber towels, polishes |
| Permits and Licenses | $2,000 - $4,000 | Environmental permits, business license, water usage permits |
| Marketing and Branding | $4,000 - $8,000 | Website, social media, loyalty programs |
| Staffing and Training | $5,000 - $10,000 | Trained staff, labor costs, uniforms |
| Miscellaneous/Contingency | $5,000 - $15,000 | Insurance, emergency funds, unexpected repairs |
High-End, Automated Car Wash with Advanced Equipment
Total Budget Estimate: $80,000 - $150,000
| Category | Budget Allocation | Example of Expenses |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment (High-End Automated) | $40,000 - $70,000 | Automated washing bays, advanced drying systems, water reclamation systems |
| Lease and Premium Renovation | $20,000 - $40,000 | Luxurious waiting area, premium location, high-grade signage |
| Cleaning Supplies | $8,000 - $15,000 | Top-quality soaps, specialty waxes, premium detailing products |
| Permits, Licenses, and Insurance | $5,000 - $10,000 | Comprehensive business insurance, all necessary permits |
| Marketing and Premium Branding | $10,000 - $20,000 | Professional marketing campaign, high-end branding, website development |
| Staffing and Expert Training | $7,000 - $15,000 | Skilled technicians, customer service training, management staff |
| Miscellaneous/Contingency | $10,000 - $30,000 | Contingency funds for unforeseen expenses, luxury small wares |
How to secure enough funding to open a car wash?
Car wash services typically rely on a combination of personal savings, bank loans, and occasionally contributions from family and friends for funding.
This is because car washes, much like small to medium-sized enterprises, may not draw the attention of larger investors such as venture capitalists, who usually invest in high-growth, scalable businesses. Moreover, while grants exist for various sectors, they are less frequent in the car wash industry, which typically doesn't align with the primary focus of grant programs that often target sectors like technology, health, or education.
Securing a loan from a bank or attracting an investor for a car wash business requires a comprehensive business plan. This plan should detail financial projections, market analysis, a unique selling proposition (what makes your car wash stand out), and an operations strategy.
To convince banks and investors, it's essential to demonstrate an understanding of your target market and a clear route to profitability. They look for a solid grasp of the business's financial aspects, including projected revenues, expenses, and cash flow. Additionally, showing your commitment and capability to run the business effectively, through either your experience or partnerships with individuals experienced in the car wash or business management sectors, is advantageous.
As for the portion of the total startup budget you should contribute, it usually varies. Having about 20-30% of your own money in the venture is often seen positively as it indicates a personal commitment to the project. However, personal funds aren't always mandatory. If you can convincingly demonstrate the viability of your business plan and your ability to repay a loan, securing funding without a personal financial investment is possible.
The timing for securing funds is also critical. Ideally, securing financing about 6 months before launch gives you time to set up your car wash, purchase equipment, hire staff, and manage pre-launch expenses. This timeframe also offers a buffer for any unexpected challenges.
Expecting to be cash flow positive from the first month of operation is generally overly optimistic. Most new businesses take time to turn profitable. Thus, it's advisable to allocate a portion of your initial funding to cover operating expenses for the first few months. A typical strategy is to reserve around 20-25% of your total startup budget as working capital to support cash flow until the business becomes self-sustaining.
You might also want to read our dedicated article related to the profitability of a car wash service.
How to use the financial plan for your car wash service?
Many aspiring car wash owners approach investors with presentations that lack clarity and organization, often featuring unstructured arguments and unprofessional financial documents.
If your goal is to launch a successful car wash service, obtaining the necessary funding is a critical step. This requires gaining the trust and confidence of potential investors or lenders.
To accomplish this, it's imperative to present them with a professional business and financial plan.
Our team has created a user-friendly financial plan, specifically designed for car wash business models. This plan includes comprehensive financial projections for a three-year period.
The plan covers all vital financial tables and ratios, such as the income statement, cash flow statement, break-even analysis, and a provisional balance sheet. It features pre-filled data, including a detailed list of expenses relevant to car wash operations. You can easily adjust these figures to match your specific project requirements.
Our financial plan is not only compatible with loan applications but also suitable for those new to the business world (complete with full guidance). No prior financial expertise is needed. You won't have to deal with complex calculations or spreadsheet modifications, as all functionalities are automated. Simply input your data and make selections. We've streamlined the process to ensure it is straightforward for everyone, even entrepreneurs who may not be familiar with financial software like Excel.
Should you need assistance or have any questions, our dedicated team is available to provide support, at no additional cost.
The content provided here is for informational purposes only and does not imply endorsement. While we strive for accuracy, we do not guarantee the completeness or reliability of the information, including text, images, links, or other elements in this material. Following the advice or strategies presented here does not assure specific outcomes. For guidance tailored to your individual circumstances, it is recommended to consult with a professional, such as a lawyer, accountant, or business advisor.