#411 - RPM Garage: An Inside Look at Luxury Retail

In Episode 411 of The Independent Dealer Podcast, we take you inside RPM Garage in Dallas, Texas for a full shop tour with special guest Patrick Ellefson.

This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at a specialty dealership built around classic cars, exotics, high-horsepower builds, and truly one-of-one inventory. Patrick breaks down how he sources unique vehicles, prices inventory for faster turn time, and uses social media to generate consistent inbound demand in a niche market.

Whether you’re a buy here, pay here dealer or an independent used car dealer, this episode delivers practical insight you can apply to inventory strategy, marketing, and dealership operations.

• How RPM Garage sources specialty inventory without relying on auctions

• Why faster turn time can outperform chasing high gross margins

• The risks and realities of selling modified and high-horsepower vehicles

• How social media drives real car sales for independent dealers

• Why dealership presentation and atmosphere impact buyer trust

• Turning your dealership into a destination, not just a lot

• Using social media as a core sales channel

• Managing inventory risk in specialty vehicles

• Building a business around what you enjoy selling

If you’re an independent dealer looking to stand out, improve turn time, or rethink your inventory and marketing strategy, this episode provides real-world insight from a dealer who’s doing it differently.

Support the businesses who support the podcast:

• BlytzPay — credit card processing and text communications for independent dealers (3 free months when you mention IDP)

• Buckeye Risk Services — education and reinsurance solutions

• TaxMax — flexible tax refund solutions for car buyers

Website: www.theindependentdealer.comEmail: [email protected] Group: @independentautogroupLuke Godwin: @lukegodwinJeff Watson: /sendtojeffw

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