Mechanically challenged
Early in 2023 it became obvious that I would need to invest into a side-hustle vehicle. New clients were coming online and people were calling me for help. And yet, I was dreading my upcoming search because my car freak brother had moved far away to Alberta. I was on my own, funds were limited and the cost of new vehicles was astronomical.
Since we are talking about a side hustle we can eliminate brand new vehicles. I didn’t want huge monthly payments and the stress. But used antiques bring their own stress.
Pick-up vs. cargo van
Pick-up trucks look cooler but cargo vans offer storage I don’t otherwise have in my condo. My low budget meant that I had to test drive several older truck with lots of kilometers but who cared? My goal was to make it to December. There is nothing worse than having work available and not be able to do it.
I gave up on one promising GMC Sierra truck after it became obvious that the odometer and Car-Fax data didn’t match. The price of the truck has since gone down from $4,900 to 3,500. I believe it will head south even more. Next.
Eventually I found a blue Ford pick-up and the owner played me hard. I had to put up a deposit because several people were coming over to see it and he couldn’t hold it for me without a deposit. That’s the very definition of a scam. So I had some fun and sent him $15.
When I showed up the next day at the appointed time, the truck was there but not the seller. I waited for over one hour before giving up. I wouldn’t hear from the seller for over a week: his cell phone died. That’s it? A $15 scam? Brilliant.
Once I also drove to New Westminster to check out two pick ups. The pictures looked good and prices seemed reasonable. When I got to the dealership, it was totally jammed full of used cars and the trucks I was hoping to test drive were by the fence, dusty and covered by out of control cottonwood trees. It would have taken ages to shuffle the cars so I gave up. Often I wonder how these businesses make money.
Cargo
When I found a cargo van nearby I jumped at it. It looked OK and everything worked. Now I just need it to run well until the end of the season in December. It’s an antique from 2002 but hey, I’m not picky. I just need to get to Mrs. Smith’s garden. Yes, there’s a dent in the front but I’m sure I will add my own blemishes.
I love the storage space inside and my underground parkade is fairly safe. Who cares if my daughter calls it a kidnapper van. I have wheels for my side gigs. That was the dream. I might even give her an allowance.
Conclusion
This is a terrible time to shop for vehicles with high interest rates and limited supplies. There are some awful antiques with huge price tags. I found a cargo van after months of searching and we’ll see if it’s a lemon. I had to take a chance because my clients couldn’t wait forever for me to show up. Give me a month and the van will be paid off.
It was my dream to have a side gig vehicle. Now back to work.
