Who Runs a Car Repair Shop?

[raymr]

I am considering the idea. It would just be me and a helper to start, so it would be a small operation with room for maybe 3-4 cars indoors. I would rent warehouse space and buy airtools, a lift, test equipment, manuals, etc.

So:
What would be the minimum indoor square footage needed?
Do you perform general repairs or a specialty, such as body work?
How much is the initial investment?
What are your ongoing expenses?

I know money can be made, since a local indy isn't even accepting any new customers due to high demand. There is a need for quality repair work in this area.