#65 PDR Business In A New Town

PDR Business From Scratch: What I’d Do If I Started Over in a New City Episode Summary: What happens if you lose everything—your contacts, your reputation, your content—and have to rebuild your PDR business from zero? In this episode, Gene Fetty lays out a complete, practical roadmap for restarting in a brand-new market. From immediate cash flow to long-term stability, this is a step-by-step strategy rooted in real experience. Key Takeaways 1. Cash Flow First — Survival Mode Matters You’re not in the dent business yet—you’re in the marketing and sales business Start where money is immediate: Independent used car lots (COD work) Small body shops (quick pay + opportunity) 2. Go Where the Cars Are Car washes Detail shops High-traffic vehicle locations Set up simple, fast: Mobile setup Quick-turn repairs Volume over perfection early on 3. Build Reviews Immediately Set up your Google Business profile ASAP Ask every customer for a review Frame it as reciprocity, not begging “Reviews are how the next customer finds you.” 4. Document EVERYTHING (Content Machine) Every repair = content opportunity Use your phone—no excuses Post everywhere: Google Business YouTube Facebook Instagram 5. Wholesale = Long-Term Stability Target franchise dealerships (BMW, Lexus, etc.) Position yourself as: Backup to current tech Bridge between PDR and body shop 💡 Key insight: Sell once → get paid for years 6. Play the Long Game with Dealers Consistency wins Show up weekly Build relationships, not pressure 7. Turn On Google Ads Early Don’t wait for SEO Start with $300–$500/month Focus on high-intent searches 8. Build a Foundation Before Scaling Early work = “site prep” Wholesale = foundation Retail + marketing = growth layer Quote Worth Remembering “Until you have dents in front of you, you’re not in the dent repair business—you’re in the marketing business.” Call to Action Interested in advanced training? Grab a seat before they’re gone. Follow DRN for more real-world PDR business strategy. Share this episode with someone trying to level up.