Sam,
I'm considering opening some type of Classic Car Sales/Parts Resto Shop at some future date due to the lack of available services in my area. But you'd tie up a considerable amount of capital trying to make a go of it with you being the primary customer.
I do think that with a store front and some ready cash you would find some good opportunities to help supplement your income and to keep your people busy through a slow patch.
Sam heres the link to the place I believe your referring to:
http://www.motorsportranch.com/ . My wife and I are considering a 6 or 8 car garage house now with trackside view. The whole first floor is garage area with doors on opposite sides....a true drive in/drive out experience. The second floor is usually living space with a balcony area to watch the action. A loft is commonly done on top of the living area for better view. The track is an asphalt paved road course booked by car clubs and the like with certain days reserved for residents. Mainly Porches, Vipers, Italian Sports cars and SCCA type cars on it. There is some talk of adding another type of track later, not sure if that would be circle or straight line.
Greg,
I think your right about other investments offering better returns for the long haul. But most of the guys saying it's for investment purposes are just trying to justify spending so much money on old cars to their friends, wife and themselves. I don't think their is a wrong or right reason to collect and/or restore cars, it's a personal choice. Remember that the reason we give for doing something, somtimes has little relation to our true purpose.
But I know one thing for sure. For me its sure cheaper than fishing or hunting. Those have been some of the most expensive meals I've ever had!
COPO,
I believe your right,but you gotta have hope and keep looking.
TimG,
Ditto!