What happens when collections become tougher than sales? In this episode, Jeff Baker—owner of Car City and chairman of the NIADA Buy Here Pay Here commission—shares how his nine-location dealership thrives with a lease-here, pay-here model. From navigating inflationary pressures to tackling compliance and regulatory challenges, Baker offers candid insights on collections, customer relationships, and the future of the industry. Plus, hear how dealer panels and national conferences spark million-dollar ideas.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome & Industry Headlines
01:00 Guest Introduction: Jeff Baker of Car City
02:30 Car City’s Lease Here Pay Here Model
04:55 Why Leasing Beats Buy Here Pay Here in Michigan
07:00 Collections Challenges & Inflationary Pressures
09:15 Sales Growth vs. Collections Reality
11:00 Compliance, Starter Interrupts & Bankruptcy Advantages
13:00 The Return of the NIADA Buy Here Pay Here Commission
15:30 Dealer Panels & Million-Dollar Ideas from Conferences
18:00 Planning Ahead: Tax Season & 2026 Outlook
20:30 Hiring Skilled Technicians & Collection Staff
22:00 Interest Rates & Subprime Lending Cycles
24:00 Commission Agenda & Proactive Industry Strategy
26:30 NIADA Denver Conference Preview
28:00 Final Thoughts & Dealer Call to Action
29:30 Closing Remarks & Subscription Info