That Honest Car Guy – My Story

Why start a business helping people buy and sell cars?
It’s a fair question.

My story begins in 1980s Cornwall, growing up through the 80s with an obsession for cars. There weren’t many exotic machines around, so when something special appeared, it felt otherworldly. A Porsche 911 rumbling through town would stop me in my tracks. And there was one local hero who owned a Ford Sierra RS Cosworth — a proper poster car for an 80s kid like me.

We didn’t have much money growing up. Ironically, my dad — a mechanic among other things — sold all his “interesting” cars when I was born. Before that, he used to rebuild and race MGs in hill climbs and sprints, winning plenty of trophies along the way. By the time I arrived, though, the glamour had faded. The most exciting car I remember was a bright yellow Triumph 2500 convertible. After that came a string of old, sensible, slightly tired cars — plus a yellow Bedford van that seemed to spend more time broken down than running.

I found myself admiring my friends’ parents’ cars instead: the latest Honda Civic, Peugeot 405 or Nissan Sunny. I even learned to drive in Dad’s beige 1978 Volvo 244, complete with a slipping clutch. Hardly aspirational — but memorable.

Discovering the thrill of the search

At some point, I discovered Auto Trader magazine. Dad must have brought home a copy while hunting for our next bargain. Before long, I was spending my pocket money on it, poring over the classifieds for hours. I’d circle potential upgrades and enthusiastically present them to Dad:

“What about a Rover 800? Or a Renault 21? Maybe even a Peugeot 309 GTI?”

He never listened, of course.

But that was where it began — not just a love of cars, but a love of the process. Researching. Comparing. Imagining. Finding the right one.

More than transport

As soon as I passed my test, owning a car meant freedom. But it was never just about getting from A to B. I’ve always loved the design, engineering and personality of cars. I still have a library of brochures for cars I’ve owned — and plenty I never will. Add to that model cars, Scalextric, books, and a bit of home tinkering in the garage. Yes, I am a proud car nerd!

And yes, I firmly believe cars drive better when they’re clean. You can’t beat a Sunday morning with some snow foam and a bucket of water!

Over the years, I’ve owned more than 30 cars — around one a year, sometimes more. Sports cars, family cars, SUVs (including two Land Rovers), and most recently a camper van. My favourites? The three Alfa Romeos and three Jaguars. In my opinion, you can’t call yourself a true car enthusiast until you’ve owned an Alfa at least once and there is nothing like a super-charged V8 Jaguar for grace and pace!

So why this business?

Because I’m not a traditional motor dealer. In fact I’m not one at all, I never have been, that’s the whole point! I have years of really valuable experience buying, owning and maintaining my own cars, alongside advising others. I like to think I know a good car when I see one and I’m not afraid to dig a little deeper, research or speak to a model specific expert if I need to find out more!

I’m not driven by stock lists, sales targets or commission. I don’t see cars as numbers on a spreadsheet. And I’m not jaded by “dealer speak.”

Cars matter. They’re part of your life story.

They take you to work. On the school run. To weddings and funerals. On family holidays. They bring your first child home from hospital. They carry memories.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve helped friends and family choose their cars — advising on what’s worth buying, what to avoid, and how to find the right fit. It started with those old classified magazines at the kitchen table with my dad (though I still wish he’d taken my advice about that Volvo).

Helping people navigate the car market isn’t just something I can do — it’s something I genuinely enjoy.

Let’s find your next car

If you’re thinking about selling your current car or searching for the right next one, I’d love to help.

I offer a free, no-obligation initial consultation. No pressure. Just an honest conversation about what you need and how I can help.

I look forward to speaking with you.

Ross