Today we’d like to introduce you to Ajay Lund.
Hi Ajay, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
It all started on October 28, 2013. Most don’t remember exact dates however it was a life changer, so how could I forget? I was super fortunate to get a job as a sales associate at Brandon Honda, which is a signature dealership within the Morgan Auto Group.
Things translated semi-quickly for me. As I sold more vehicles and got to know the sales process, I was hooked. The elite dealerships in Florida are never really closed. I was at one of the high-producing dealerships that never slept. We have closed a handful of days out of the year. I was surrounded by excellence and some of the most insightful people in the industry.
I put my twist on it and became different than the rest. Most people do not like buying a car. Out of thousands of car deals I have done, 99% of customers would agree it was the best experience they have ever had. Not many in the industry can say the same.
Before my 30th birthday, I was put into the business office (aka Finance & Insurance). It was the opportunity that I was seeking. I learned how that side of the industry operates. After that; I hit the road for nearly two years. I traveled mostly in the southeast and went to dealerships for 7 or 10 days at a time. It allowed me to see how other dealerships operated both big and small.
I needed to learn how the independent (non-franchise) side of the business worked. I hopped back into an F&I position in Tampa. The people I dealt with daily were awesome. It confirmed that I enjoyed dealing with people that TRULY loved the vehicle they were purchasing. Let’s face it you can buy something you want or something you need. I knew that when I opened my car dealership, I was going to blend both!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Everyone has a different definition of smooth. My perspective is similar to that of professional sports. Athletes endure and sacrifice so much for the unknown.
Sacrifices tend to lead to results, which makes it all worth it. I knew the opportunity was there. I never chased the money; I chased the purpose. If I put my all into it, I would reap the benefits. More than financial gain, I strive for purpose and that’s what keeps me moving forward.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The difference between us and most dealerships is that every car deal truly counts. I want people to remember their experiences and enjoy the process. As a small dealership, we look hard for inventory that we believe people would appreciate, and love. We try to be more of a boutique-style business. I want anyone who gives us their time and money to understand that you are our priority. We go the distance and treat your next vehicle like ours.
In Florida, dealers charge a documentary fee also known as a dealer fee. I refuse. There seem to be so many additional fees on top of a purchase price. I don’t like the marketing schemes in today’s world. As a result, I decided to not charge a dealer fee because I wanted to build transparency and integrity even if it was at my expense. With us, the price you see is the price you get. Sometimes there are exceptions to that, but very far and between.
At other dealers, the conversation may end if they don’t have the vehicle in stock that you want. For us, it is just beginning. Part of our business is to help clients find a vehicle they want, at the terms that work for them. With our expertise, we can find what you are looking for.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I have a deep passion for golf. It taught me how to stay focused. and stay present in the moment. It helped me translate into the business world. It doesn’t matter what is going on. You need to stay present to execute.
You can’t think about results, nor can you think about the past or the future. It is called the “present” for a reason, it is a gift. Most do not understand that and live too far on one side of the spectrum that is the past or the future. You need to live in the moment and live with your decisions.
Contact Info:
- Website: streamlineautotampa.com
