This is a great thread OP and I'm sure we will see many more like this. Corey might I suggest a sticky post eventually to help new people starting out on what they need?
Jeff,
I have dealt with a lot of people in this business and I can say Corey is one of the best.
I remember when I started out, all the products out there can be overwhelming. Finding someone you trust and who knows what they are talking about is important. You have landed in the right spot for sure.
Grit guards have been mentioned which leads me to believe you are either using the two bucket wash method or are going to. Either way you are on the right track.
Knowing how to wash/dry your car correctly is just as important as the products you use. For example it's best to wash your car the length of the vehicle and not in circles like most people do. Why? Because if you induce marring or scratches while you are washing, due to the way light refracts, is much less noticeable if they are front to back of the car instead of a bunch of circles, Does that make sense?
A great car shampoo, two bucket method, wash mitt, drying towel, detail spray and technique are the most important things to possess.
The reason I mentioned detail spray is because good detail sprays are Ph neutral and will help prevent water spots. A lot of people like myself have hard water(I wash a lot of cars). Implementing a good detail spray into your drying process can greatly reduce, if I dare to say eliminate adding, water spots when washing.
Corey will point you in the right direction for sure.
J