Hunt Demarest, CPA/ABV


A Recognized Voice in Automotive Shop Profitability

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Meet Hunt


Hunt Demarest isn’t your typical accountant—he’s a leading voice in the auto repair industry, equipping shop owners across the country with the financial knowledge they need to grow sustainably and profitably.

As a partner at Paar, Melis & Associates, an accounting and tax firm that has specialized in the automotive repair industry since 1992, Hunt draws on real-world data from hundreds of auto repair shops to offer insights and strategies that actually work.

Through his weekly podcast, Business by the Numbers, and speaking engagements across the country, Hunt breaks down complex financial topics into simple, actionable steps that shop owners can immediately apply. His content spans from tax updates and pricing strategies to succession planning and profit improvement.

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Upcoming Speaking Engagements


Business by the Numbers

Subscribe to Hunts Weekly Podcast!


Business by the Numbers is the go-to podcast for auto repair shop owners who want to take control of their finances and grow a more profitable business. Hosted by Hunt Demarest, CPA and industry expert, each episode breaks down complex financial topics into practical, easy-to-understand insights tailored specifically for the automotive world. From pricing strategies and cash flow tips to real-life shop stories and tax advice, Hunt delivers straight talk that helps you make smarter decisions and boost your bottom line—one episode at a time.

Essential Books for Auto Repair Shop Success

by our own Hunt Demarest



wrenches to write offs

Wrenches to Write-offs

Tax Tips Every Repair Shop Owner Should Know

This book by Hunt Demarest, CPA/ABV is a practical guide for auto repair shop owners. It offers industry-specific advice on managing finances during tax season and stresses the value of professional guidance while providing a solid foundation for understanding tax obligations. The book includes a helpful appendix with preparation checklists, deadlines, and key tax terms, making it a go-to reference year after year.

your perfect shop

Your Perfect Shop

How to Start, Run & Sell a Profitable Shop

This book by Hunt Demarest helps auto repair shop owners master the financial side of their business. Even small changes in key metrics can mean the difference between profit and loss. This audiobook shares best practices for building, running, and eventually selling a profitable shop—giving owners the tools and processes needed to create lasting success.

coming soon

Coming Soon

Hunt’s Next Essential Guide for Auto Repair Shop Owners

Hunt Demarest, CPA/ABV is currently working on his third book specifically designed to help auto repair shop owners master another critical aspect of the financial side of their business. Building on the success of his previous works, this upcoming guide will address key financial challenges that shop owners face beyond taxes and general profitability. Stay tuned for more details on this upcoming book.

About Paar Melis.

Paar, Melis & Associates is a nationally recognized accounting and advisory firm dedicated exclusively to serving auto repair shop owners. With decades of industry-specific experience, PMA helps independent shop owners take control of their financials, improve profitability, and plan strategically for long-term success. Through specialized tax services, bookkeeping, consulting, and educational resources like the annual Benchmark Report, PMA is committed to helping shop owners understand their numbers and unlock the full potential of their business.