Oregon Dealer News March 2011 www.oiada.com - 1-800-447-0302 January 2013 www.oiada.com 800-447-0302 Oregon Independent Automobile Dealers Association Representing all Auto, Truck, Trailer, RV, and Power Sport Dealers of Oregon Unintended Express Warranties: What Sales Staff Says Matters [p8] The Environmentally Conscious Dealer [p10] What’s in Store [p12] SIDE EXPECT MORE WITH MANHEIM Political Action Committee . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .1 THIS ISSUE Shifting Gears. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 3 Staff Changes . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 5 OIADA Education Schedule . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .7 Unintended Express Warranties: What Sales Staff Says Matters . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .8 The Environmentally Conscious Dealer . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 10 What’s in Store . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 12 Oregon Dealer News Corner. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 14 Associate Member List. . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 15 Read and Respond. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .16 HONDA ▪ INFINITI ▪ KIA ▪ DODGE ▪ CHRYSLER ▪ JEEP ▪ YAMAHA ▪ Tuesdays starting at 8:30 am Airfare and Hotel Assistance Available. Ask for Details. 3000 N Hayden Island Drive Portland, OR 97217 503.286.3000 www.manheim.com Sales every Tuesday starting at 8:30 a.m. PolitiCal TOYOTA & MAZDA OF GLADSTONE Action Committee OIADA must be a constant presence in monitoring current legislation within our state. We need to interpret legislative activity that may impact our industry. It is the association’s responsibility to maintain an ongoing relationship with governmental officials and regulatory agencies. Your voluntary PAC contribution helps our legislative representatives work for you, the independent auto dealer. OIADA has worked on many issues affecting dealers such as stopping the 3 day right of rescission, getting temporary motorcycle permits that actually fit on the rear plate area, extension of DEQ slips from 90 days to 180 days, all new broker disclosure forms, new silver dealer plate that makes us really look like a dealer, opposing no sales on Sunday, saying no to a big increase in DMV fees, as well as ongoing dealings with regulatory agencies, just to mention a few. An added benefit to making a political contribution is the Oregon Tax Credit. You can take this directly off your state tax liability. The credit is $50 for an individual and $100 on a joint return. We thank you for understanding the importance of a strong presence within our Legislature. Please remember the next time you renew your membership to consider your PAC contribution. 2012 OIADA Executive Committee OIADA Staff Dan Nicholson, CMD, President Central Oregon Motors 1123 N 6th Street Redmond, OR 97756 541-923-3961 Fax 541-923-3964 [email protected] Diane Sparks Executive Director [email protected] Bryan Steward, Executive Vice President AAA Oregon AutoSource 6 SW Centerpointe Dr. #100 Lake Oswego, OR 97035 503-973-6570 Cell 503-709-3835 [email protected] Pauline Sill Office Manager [email protected] Doug Blizzard 1st Vice President Blizzard Motors, Inc. 1604 E. Burnside Portland, OR 97214 503-238-5510 Fax 503-238-3838 [email protected] First, let me introduce you’re your Executive Committee. These gentlemen are vital to the association and each one of them brings a unique set of skills and talents to your association. Dan Nicholson (CMD) Executive Vice President- Bryan Stewart, AAA Auto Source. Central Oregon Motors 1St Vice President- Doug Blizzard, Blizzard Motors. 541-923-3961 2nd Vice President- Tommy Wilson, Tommy Wilson Motors. Chairman of The Board- Your past President Gary Sargent, Sargents Motors Sports. Bryan Stewart is overseeing the Salem and Klamath Falls Regions. Doug Blizzard is overseeing the Portland and the Medford Regions. I will be overseeing the Eugene and the Central Regions. Our goals for the Regions this year is to bring events once a quarter to your local areas. These events will be up to you, we want to hear your ideas so we can tailor them to meet your needs. Tommy Wilson is overseeing the Legislation and Membership Committees. Our goals for Legislation are always to be a watch dog for up coming bills that may affect our industry. We would also like to sponsor 2 bills that would improve or protect some aspect of our industry. Your membership committee would like to develop a welcome program for new members. Also a mentor program, this would assign new members or dealers to a veteran dealer to seek advice or help when needed. Eric Freeman, CMD Secretary 7524 SW Macadam Ave Portland, OR 97219 Office 503-310-5555 Cell 503-320-1596 [email protected] 2 | OIADA January 2013 Hello everyone and happy New Year. As we are entering into this New Year, I hope all of you are sitting down writing your goals for 2013. Last month the Executive Committee also sat down and outlined OIADA’s goals for 2013. I would like to share those goals with you, along with the responsibilities of each Executive Committee member. Secretary – Eric Freeman, Freeman Motor Company. Tommy Wilson 2nd Vice President Tommy Wilson Motor Company, LLC/ 9215 SW Canyon Rd. Portland, OR 97225 503-629-6000 [email protected] Gary Sargent, Chairman of the Boardt Sargent’s Motorsports 10207 SE Foster Road Portland, OR 97266 503-775-9445 Fax 503-777-9886 Cell 503-969-5228 [email protected] GEARS” “Shifting With Dan Nicholson Eric Freeman will be overseeing the Education and Image Committee. The Education Committee is looking for new education classes and new ways to present these classes such as webinars. Currently Eric has 8 education classes planned. We are currently looking at an online course for your continuing education that will provide more solid material for your business. Our Image committee is looking to put together a Certified Dealer program and revamping your Quality Dealer program. Oregon Dealer News is a publication of the Oregon Independent Auto Dealers Association, 1475 Capitol St. NE, Salem, OR 97301 and is published every month. The association was established in 1948, chartered as a non-profit organization in Oregon and is affiliated with the National Independent Auto Dealers Association. Advertising rates may be furnished upon request. ~ The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Oregon Independent Auto Dealers Association. Likewise, the appearance of advertisements or the identification as members of OIADA does not constitute endorsement of the products or services featured. *For advertising information please contact OIADA at 800.447.0302 Your Executive Committee is committed to these goals to bring your Association to the next level, but of course they can not do it alone. We need your to help coordinate the regional events and work on these committees. This is your Association and if we are to stay strong we need your help. I am again going to challenge you to find an area that interest you and get involved. Make it part of your New Year goals and take ownership in this great association. Dan Nicholson President Oregon Independent Auto Dealers Association OIADA January 2013 | 3 Staff Changes Wendy Riggi It is with great appreciation of everything that Wendy Riggi has done for OIADA over the last 3 years that we bid her well wishes as she ventures into her next challenge in life. Wendy has been going to school full time while working for the OIADA. Her new career choice is to be a Dental Hygienist and is near completing her general studies at the end of this school year. From there she will be applying to 3 schools that accept a limited number of students and could mean a great deal of travel and dedication to attend the school of choice. Over the last 3 years Wendy has been our go to staff member, she has answered your calls, helped you with your education needs and reviewing your credits to keep your business on track. She has taken great care in answering all your questions, tracking down answers that may have been unique and following up to keep you informed. She has been prompt in getting you the business forms that everyone needs in our industry, we thank Wendy for keeping our OIADA running smoothly and for all her dedication to our industry. Again Thank You for your Dedication to the Membership, Executive Committee and Board of Directors. Pauline Sill We are pleased to introduce our newest staff member Pauline Sill. Pauline comes to us with past experience in the cycle industry as operations manager. We are delighted with her knowledge from precious positions that will help with sliding into the role of Office Manager here at OIADA. Pauline brings to us her knowledge in accounting/bookkeeping, customer service and HR experience. Pauline although not a native Oregonian she has lived in the Salem area for over 12 years, has 2 grown children and 4 grandchildren. She has served on the Arizona Dept. of Environmental Quality, named Arizona Small Business Association’s “Small Business Entrepreneur in 1999” Pauline in the short time she has been with OIADA she has proven to be dedicated, experienced a team player and above all committed to putting the membership first. We are delighted that we will be able to make the transition easy, so help us out and next time you call the office, introduce yourself and welcome our newest member of the team, Pauline Sill 4 | OIADA January 2013 OIADA January 2013 | 5 OIADA EDUCATION CLASS SCHEDULE Pre-License - Continuing Education – Title & Registration January 2013 Is Proud To Be In Oregon! TO REGISTER FOR A CLASS 4 – Brasher’s Portland AA Office – Pre-licensing 18 –Manheim Portland – Title & Registration/ Compliance Class February 2013 8 – OIADA Salem Office – Pre-licensing 15 –Brasher’s NW Eugene – Title & Registration/ Compliance Class March 2013 8 – Brasher’s NW Eugene – Pre-licensing 15 –Brasher’s Portland AA – Title & Registration/ Compliance Class 22 – OIADA Salem Office – Pre-licensing 29 –BManheim Portland – Title & Registration/ Compliance Class When trying to reach your customers online the Dealix UsedCars.com Network is there to help. Get your inventory and dealership valuable exposure on one of the fastest growing and easy-to-use auto shopping sites on the Internet today and let us help you do the work: • UsedCars.com and its affiliate network of websites are visited by nearly 40% of all shoppers looking for pre-owned vehicles Brasher’s NW Auto Auction: 90485 Auction Way, Eugene, OR 97402 Manheim Portland Auto Auction: 3000 N Hayden Island Drive, Portland, OR 97218 Brasher’s Portland Auto Auction: 23585 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, OR 97238 OIADA: 1475 Capitol St NE, Salem, OR 97301 Call 503-362-6839 or 1-800-447-0302 (All times, dates, locations subject to change) Driver’s license or other positive ID required BEFORE class begins PRE-LICENSING IS AVAILABLE IN A “LIVE CLASSROOM FORMAT” OR “HOME STUDY” COURSE • Pre-licensing classes begin at 8:30 a.m. unless otherwise noted • Title & Registration classes begin at 9:00 a.m. unless otherwise noted • All dealers must complete 5-hours of Continuing Education per year • All persons who desire to be licensed as a motor vehicle dealer must complete an • 8-hour pre-licensing seminar before DMV will issue a dealer’s license. WWW.OIADA.COM on the largest Internet automotive sites.1 • With the UsedCars.com Network, you will get exposure to over 20 million used car shoppers (on a nationwide basis) each Hassle Fre e Lead TM Return month and preferred placement on top automotive sites. 2 • For nearly 15 years, our pay for performance business model has helped thousands of car dealers do a better job of attracting consumers to their dealerships. UsedCars.com is backed by The Dealix Quality PledgeTM and Hassle Free Lead ReturnTM To find out how many leads we have available for the cars you’re which means you only pay us selling, visit www.dealix.com to get an immediate used car when we deliver you serious, in leads estimate or call us today at (877) 894-5062. market buyers; or you can return the lead and when it’s possible Special Program s Available to all OI & Discounts ADA members! 1. ComScore MediaMetrix, November 2010. Potential, unduplicated reach of UsedCars.com affiliate network. 2. ComScore MediaMetrix, September 2011. we will, replace it with a new lead. Dealix® Leads to Sales Educational Instructor Bobbi Cockeram Born and raised in Eastern Oregon in the little town of Vale, Bobbi worked for the local GMC dealership in Ontario, Oregon at the age of 18 selling to the local “Good ol’ boys” farmers and ranchers. This is where her love for the Auto Industry started. She relocated to the Portland area in 1996 where she entered her career as a “Title and Registration Specialist.” It was a very challenging time back then as there were no classes or training of any sort, so after years of hard work, dedication, and making it her business to become as knowledgeable as she could from whatever resources she could find, she successfully graduated from the school of “Hard Knocks,” and took off in the world as an independent Auto Dealer Consultant/Title and Registration Specialist for Oregon auto dealers. Bobbi has not only had the opportunity to work with Oregon auto dealers, but with Dealer Auctions, and several other states dealers as well. Additionally, she is well versed in other state laws and DMV statues. Bobbi started instructing Title and Registration classes as well as Prelicensing Courses and other forms of Continuing Education for us at the OIADA 3 years ago and the classes just keeping better and bigger. She brings to us a great deal of knowledge and experience to our members and staff. We are very excited about partnering with Bobbi. Her addition to the team has taken our educational and consulting programs for our members to the next level. Services Provided by Bobbi: Dealer-to-Dealer and Dealer-toConsumer Mediation Title Training CarFax and Auto Check Cleaning Lost Duplicate Titles (in all states) Title clerk fill-in Dealer Setups Title Preparation/Processing Notary Services Book Keeping Services Title Corrections/Problem Titles V-3 Training/ Setup Deal Jacket Compliance Audits Bobbi L Cockeram Po Box 727 Gladstone, Or 97027 503-810-5535 [email protected] OIADA January 2013 | 7 Unintended Express Warranties: What Sales Staff Says Matters Compliance Overdrive By Chip Zyvoloski There’s no question that what a dealer says to a customer as part of the sales process matters. But it’s not just about what is said by the F&I department and what’s documented on a sales contract to finalize a deal. It’s also about what is being communicated outside, on the car lot. No matter how accurate and compliant your finance documentation is, if it disconnects from promises made during the sales process, you could be facing a problem. Though the law is different in every state, most have passed some version of the model Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) § 2-313. It provides that an express warranty is created by the seller when it makes a statement of fact or promise to the buyer relating to the goods, which becomes part of the basis of the bargain. The elements are pretty broad and cover a wide range of common statements a salesperson might make when discussing a vehicle with a potential buyer. For example, if a salesperson says to a potential buyer, “This car comes with a new spare tire,” as part of the sales discussion, the promise is probably an express warranty. 8 | OIADA January 2013 What happens if the customer picks up his or her car after the sales contract is signed and a used spare tire is in the trunk? Contrary to what some might think, express warranties generally can’t be waived or disclaimed. UCC § 2-316 provides that words or conduct creating an express warranty and words or conduct disclaiming or limiting the warranty must be interpreted in a way that makes them consistent with each other. If that’s not possible, then the disclaimers or limitations will not be enforced. In short, you can’t give with one hand and take away with the other. If a salesperson promises the car comes with a new spare tire and a used one is delivered, a written warranty disclaimer will not help. Note that the express warranty doesn’t have to be in writing and it doesn’t require using the word “warranty.” As a result, what the salesperson says can affect a transaction just as much as the documents produced by the F&I department. That’s why it’s important to know what your sales team is communicating and, more important, promising to customers. Sometimes the situation involves a simple mistake on the sales lot. A car could be presented as a six-cylinder when it’s actually an eight-cylinder. Or maybe the customer is told the car had two prior owners but there were really three. An uninformed or mistaken salesperson might also tell a customer the car has never been in an accident when in fact he or she doesn’t really know if it has or not. or at least bring them to light before an agreement is finalized, dealers are still facing situations in which customers are unhappy because an expectation that played a key factor in their decision to buy has not been met. have the best opportunity to know the features, functionality and condition of the vehicle without relying on information from you. Some dealerships have installed Internet kiosks for customers to conduct onthe-spot research. So what can you do to help prevent this from happening? This is a complex area of law, littered with exceptions and replete with court decisions that are very fact-specific and findings that are not always consistent. For example, in some situations, disclaimers or waivers can be enforced if the sales contract includes a provision saying it is the all-inclusive and exclusive agreement covering the sale. Tell your sales staff that what they say matters and why: A salesperson is a liability risk if he or she thinks all promises are wiped out by a disclaimer in the sales contract. Train your staff on proper sales techniques: That includes arming them with facts about the inventory available for sale. Encourage potential buyers to take a test drive: Also encourage them to take the vehicle to a mechanic or get a vehicle history report and other information about the car so they Whether a given statement is a statement of fact or promise (creating an express warranty) or merely sales puffery (not an express warranty) is regularly litigated. Many case decisions exist and entire books have been written on the subject. The key point is that what your sales team says on the lot is important. If there is conflict between what was promised during the sale and what was delivered, the dealer has a problem. The problem could be characterized as the breach of an express warranty, but it could also be a fraudulent misrepresentation, unfair or deceptive act, etc. – keep in mind that 15 causes of action were alleged in the Sanchez case based on the tires and other inconsistencies. Creating consistency throughout the entire sales process and making sure the lines of communication between the sales staff and F&I team are open can help mitigate risk for your dealership, ultimately saving time and money. Chip Zyvoloski is a senior attorney for indirect lending at Wolters Kluwer Financial Services. For more information, visit www. wolterskluwerfs.com/indirect. The new spare tire example may sound farfetched, but a dispute about whether new or used tires were delivered was just one of numerous inconsistencies between promises and documentation by the seller and what was delivered to the buyer in the California case of Sanchez v. Valencia ( 201 Cal. App. 4th 74 (2011)). The case is known for its decision on arbitration clauses and wasn’t about warranties. Still, it is a good example of how discussions on the lot can have a big effect on the dealer’s liability. Those kinds of express warrantycreating mistakes can be avoided by simply being careful about representations about vehicle features and facts. While services like CARFAX and certain branding of vehicle titles can help prevent some of those mistakes, hecht_autoins_ad_final_out.indd 1 2/3/11 2013 10:23:10|AM9 OIADA January The Environmentally Conscious Dealer Not only is it cost effective, it can be financially rewarding to embrace the green revolution. By Garrett Jorewicz Each day, consumers and businesses grow more environmentally conscious. Yet we are a long way from where we need to be. Make no mistake. This is a call for action. For all of us in the auto industry, each car deal is part of a gigantic revenue machine. Our focus is on retail market value vs. wholesale cost. Subtract recon expenses, advertising expenses, commissions, etc., and we’re left with net profit. The question many of us fail to ask: What is the impact on the environment? Fact: The second-leading cause of global warming is carbon dioxide emissions from burning gasoline. Our industry is married to the internal combustion engine. Our success is predicated on profits from selling large volumes of gas-guzzling, oil-burning hunks of metal to consumers. Often we gauge our performance on volume. The more, the better. Given the nature of our industry, it’s vital that we all embrace, with open arms, the need for a heightened level of environmental responsibility. There are countless ideas each of us can implement today that will make a difference to the environment while feeding our bottom lines. Green Solutions Recycle: In my travels and visits to dealerships, I’m constantly surprised – and disappointed – by the lack of recycling bins at dealerships. That is the easiest way imaginable to have a positive impact on the environment. 10 | OIADA January 2013 Simply put, we can no longer ignore the fact we are depleting the world’s natural resources. We are driving at a very fast pace toward a hotter and hotter future. Why ignore the facts when you can benefit in numerous ways by making some positive changes? with extended range. It can go up to 50 miles on 100 percent electric power, then the internal combustion engine engages for another 250 miles. It averages about 58 mpg. In addition, the consumer climate has changed to the point that it is not only cost effective, but it can be financially rewarding to embrace the green revolution. Be green and make sure the world knows! You will attract better talent along with more customers as a result. Toyota Prius: Arguably the most cost-effective solution on the market. Though not a full electric vehicle, it deserves a spot in the lineup based on its massive success in the U.S., coupled with its extreme efficiency at 50 mpg. Electric Vehicles and Hybrids Electronic fax: There are several companies that provide the service. Using an e-fax service drastically cuts down on paper and ink, and is super easy to implement. customers’ information is being retained in accordance with the dealer’s privacy policy. So, the dealer may either need to look for a different app/vendor or amend its privacy policy.) Forget traditional mailers: Typical response rate on mail advertising is a mere 2 percent. Save the paper, ink, fuel and money. Allocate those resources elsewhere. Do business with green businesses: Ask your body shop how it disposes of waste. Choose companies and vendors that act in an environmentally responsible manner. Turn off excess lighting. Use a green demo: Take the Prius for a spin instead of the Yukon. Most of us drive without passengers a large majority of the time. Driving a smaller, more efficient vehicle will save you gas money while reducing toxic greenhouse emissions. Walk or cycle: Go by foot or bike to work or to your favorite lunch or coffee spot. Smartphone apps: Use the extremely broad selection of apps to replace paper whenever possible. (NOTE:when using smartphone apps, dealers need to be aware of what information the apps ask for and make sure that their Eliminate bottled water: Bottled water is extremely inefficient. Instead, install and use a water filtration system. Hit the switch: Turn off and/ or unplug unused appliances and computers when they’re not in use. Lot lights: Be diligent about adjusting the timer that controls your lot lights. Every one of those items can be easily implemented today with little or no negative impact on your business. In most cases, you will experience a significant cost savings, especially when that savings accumulates over the course of one or more years. A major industry shift is staring all of us in the face like a hungry bear fresh out of hibernation, and the electric/hybrid market segment is growing rapidly. Nearly every major manufacturer is getting into the space, and new competitors are emerging with cutting-edge products that use state-of-the-art technology to meet consumer demand. The products currently on the market are extremely compelling, and the future of the segment is exciting. Here’s a lineup with some information about several of the products available now: Tesla Model S: The first full electric vehicle to (mostly) overcome consumers’ No. 1 concern – range anxiety. There are different battery options designed to go up to 160, 230 or even 300 miles per charge at 55 mph. Consumer interest in the product is phenomenal. The fast, sporty and beautiful sedan is expensive for the average consumer, but will be attractive to the masses on the remarketing side. Tesla Roadster: Similar to the Model S, but not as practical. This is a pure sports car. Fisker Karma: Electric/hybrid BMW ActiveE: BMW’s first full electric vehicle is only available in select markets on a two-year lease. Chevrolet Volt: The Volt can go up to 50 miles on full electric power before engaging the gasoline engine for up to another 350 miles. Range anxiety is a thing of the past with this electric/hybrid vehicle. Ford Focus Electric: The Focus can go up to 100 miles on a charge and is more affordable than any of its luxury counterparts. Super-fast charging, and 100 percent electric. Nissan Leaf: The Leaf was the first mainstream pure electric car offered for sale in the U.S. It is an excellent urban commuter vehicle but falls short when it comes to the 1 range anxiety concern. Consumers are more informed and environmentally conscious today than ever. They are actively seeking out and going out of their way to find green solutions that meet their needs. Additionally, gasoline prices are still historically high, so the financial and environmental need for alternative fuel solutions is growing by the minute. As more products emerge that meet the demands of the modern “eco-sumer,” those products will inevitably gain more traction. When it comes to pricing, most of those vehicles are at the top end or just outside the reach of the average consumer. But as they flow into the remarketing space, a majority of them will fall right into the sweet spot. Unfortunately, a large portion of our electric power comes from coalburning sources. According to the Energy Information Administration, the most predominant sources of electricity in the U.S. come from coal (48.7 percent), natural gas (21.5 percent) and nuclear power (19.4 percent). Because so much of our energy is created by coal-burning power plants, it is arguable that electric vehicles consume similar amounts of energy and as a result produce nearly as much greenhouse emissions as gas-powered vehicles. Until we create more clean and renewable energy sources, electric vehicles will remain an imperfect solution, But they represent a big step in the right direction. In the end, innovation without capitalization will die. But if enough of us buy in and support the movement, the sky is the limit. The question remains: Where do you stand on the matter? Are you going to be one of the dealers with your hand raised when an electric vehicle crosses the block? Or are you going to stand on the sidelines and watch your competitors lead the charge? Technology and the environment are two major items that influence and change how our industry looks and feels. DSC remains committed to providing you not only with the best financing options, but also cutting edge technological solutions to enhance and take your business to the next level. We are also committed to shifting with your business as environmental needs and consumer demand dictates. We are confident we have the most flexible floorplan finance solutions in the industry, designed to empower you and your business to embrace change and grow green. Garrett Jorewicz is Northwest regional director of Dealer Services Corporation. OIADA January 2013 | 11 What’s In Store Now, I’m normally a glass-half-full kind of guy, but when it comes to this, I think the glass might still be half empty. Even though the prices somewhat leveled off during the last half of last year, the numbers still seem to be dwindling for that sub-$5,000 vehicle. By Brent Carmichael The 2012 portfolio performance included some stabilization from a dollar loss standpoint, but from a number loss standpoint, there was a slight increase or worsening from 2011. What’s in store for your store in 2013? That was driven by a couple of factors, the first being the need for inventory. Some dealers accelerated their repo times when a desirable unit was involved. That also helped stabilize the dollar losses, as the vehicles were repossessed earlier and in better condition and thus earned larger recovery amounts. Dealers have seen the error of their past ways and are enjoying the spoils of their more disciplined labor If it’s anything like 2012, it should be another good year to be in the Buy Here-Pay Here industry. The new year will not be without its challenges, though. In fact, there are certain areas of the industry that could be more challenging than ever. To get an idea of what to look forward to in 2013, we first need to review how 2012 treated the BHPH world. Tax season was again sporadic at best, which pretty much set the tone for all facets of the business for the rest of the year. From a profitability standpoint, the dealers I have the distinct privilege of working with enjoyed another modest 3 percent increase in profitability in 2012 versus 2011. That increase was smaller than the previous year-over-year, and was due mostly to the continued focus on the “rightsizing” of overall operations. Dealers focused on their entire operations, from top to bottom, on continuing not only to “cut the fat” but to keep it off and run their operations based on the cash being generated instead of relying on lines of credit. I expect that focus to continue in 2013. Though funding sources have become more readily available, overall most dealers will be focusing again on generating the capital necessary to run their businesses from their businesses. As always, there will be dealers looking to grow aggressively through borrowing, and rates will continue to make that a very viable option. I don’t see rates rising drastically in the coming year, so it will still be a good time to borrow. 12 | OIADA January 2013 Having said that, I still see it being difficult to secure new lines of credit in 2013. It’s going to take some patience and the willingness to educate some institutions on our industry. Another financing option that has received quite a bit of interest recently is selling blocks of portfolios or payment streams to generate capital to operate with. The available resources for that are at an all-time high and rates seem attractive as well. Depending on the resource, it can be done either at point of sale or on seasoned receivables. The other factor was renewed focus on underwriting and the overall collection process. Dealers remained more disciplined in both areas, seeking quality over quantity. For 2013, I see more of the same. Dealers have seen the error of their past ways and are enjoying the spoils of their more disciplined labor. Expect the average charge-off to remain essentially the same and the number as a percentage of sold to remain higher than in past years, but expect collections dollars to improve as well as overall collection effectiveness. The biggest thing to affect our industry again in 2013 will no doubt come in compliance. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau was very active in 2012. It has reached out to a few dealers on a number of auditing fronts. Although no new formal regulations have been drafted, it is truly only a matter of time. We did dodge a fairly substantial bullet with the legislation that was passed – and more important, the bill that was vetoed – in California. While it would only have affected California, passing tight new regulations easily could have influenced other state’s legislators. Here is the best advice I can give to existing dealers as well as those wanting to get into the business in the coming year: don’t wait. Don’t wait to get compliant. Don’t wait to spend a little money to do so. Don’t wait to review all processes and procedures. Don’t wait to review all expenses. Don’t wait to review all of your employees. Don’t wait to train. And definitely don’t wait to sell cars, collect money and make money. Brent Carmichael serves as the Executive Conference Moderator for NCM Associates Inc.. He can be contacted at bcarmichael@ncm20. com. Rates will depend on the resource, aging, recourse aspects, performance and securitization. The key to this option is reinvesting the capital received back into receivables in a timely fashion so as not to affect future cash flow levels. Sales volume for our dealer clients increased by a modest 3 percent in 2012 over 2011. Not a record-setting year by any means, but a sporadic tax season and the resurgence of subprime and special finance are the two dominant factors leading to it. Dealers seemed to want to sell what their cash flow and underwriting standards dictated rather than sell as much as possible. We all know we can sell as many as we want or have the financial resources to in this industry. There doesn’t seem to be a lack of customers needing or wanting what we have to offer. We will see those factors continue to hold for 2013. We should have the customers in the market to sell the vehicles we want or need. The biggest question will be the quality of those customers and the availability of inventory. OIADA January 2013 | 13 ASSOCIATE MEMBER LIST: Your Dealer Products and Service Oregon Dealers News Corner Welcome New Members - OIADA Thanks You! Affordable Auto Sales & Broker Auto Trans NW 3/13 Motors Rent 2 Own Auto KC Auto Sales, LLC Redmond Motors, LLC Ron’s Auto Sales Urymann Auto Group, LLC Shepard & Shepard Scott Ski Motor Co. LLC Mickey (Michael) Pattingale Shawna Saxton Joel Krebs Alan Hart Kevin Chappelle Jerry Hagberg Ron Vaday Dave Ury Todd Shepard Scott Stanislowski Cottage Grove Tualatin Portland Salem Salem Redmond Beaverton Turner Kennewick, WA Tualatin 541-942-4988 503-691-2506 971-235-3208 503-362-5572 503-585-0463 541-548-5116 503-913-8101 503-302-6292 509-948-0040 503-305-8518 What’s Happening Nationally with NIADA The CERTIFIED MASTER DEALER® The CERTIFIED MASTER DEALER® program was developed in 2001, in collaboration with Northwood University, to help dealers manage and grow their businesses. Since then, it has grown into one of the industry’s most respected training programs. Dealers who attend this training are committed to the industry, support ethical business standards and practices, and are leaders in their communities. They bring a wide range of experience to each class, and leave with new strategies for analyzing their business practices and increasing their bottom line. Instruction is provided by Joe Lescota, NIADA Director of Dealer Development and former retail automotive executive with more than 25 years of frontline dealership, selling management and training experience. I wasn’t sure what to expect from the class because after being in this business for over 10 years, I began to fool myself into thinking that as President and CEO I already knew everything about the car business. Boy was I wrong! - Michelle Groover, Members Auto Choice (Lawrenceville, GA) Dealer 20 Group January: Atlanta, April: Dallas, August: Atlanta, December: Dallas 2013 National Convention & Expo The theme for the 2013 Convention & Expo is “New Strategies for Tomorrow.” Join thought leaders for the most sought after education and best practice sharing in the used auto industry, in a dynamic environment filled with prizes, hosted meals and bars, and a WI-FI business lounge. Topics may include: Affiliated Media LLC Ronald Massey, 503-705-9497 Skywerks Martyn Olliver, 425-738-0234 AutoTrader.com Ed Merrick, 503-747-9162 [email protected] Frazer Computing Michael Frazer, 888-963-5369 Hecht & Hecht Insurance Evelyn Hecht, 800-609-0979 [email protected] FEE-BASED INCOME PRODUCTS Kelly Martin Insurance Agency, Inc. Kelly Martin, 503-625-2615 Mile High Consulting Inc. Mike Cintron 720-838-7400 Cell Shepard and Shepard Business Solutions Todd Shepard, 509-396-2439 FINANCING LEASING Credit Acceptance John Bragg, 253-279-3230 Oregon Roads, Inc. New & Used Vehicle & Commercial Leasing Joseph McKinney, 541-683-2277 Carsforsale.com Aaron Oestretch, 605-306-3302 Cars.com 312-601-6134 The Oregonian Rich Fryback, 503-221-8486 UCMLink www.ucmlink.com Allison Pittman, 601-812-5876 UsedCars.com by Dealix Tamara Garris, 704-243-6652 AUTO ACCESSORIES Northwest Auto Accessories Craig Lessard, 503-288-5700 PRIVATE AUCTIONS Brasher’s Portland Auto Auction Jerry Hinton, 800-300-3200 Credit Concepts Jason Moon, 541-342-8545 JP Morgan–Chase Auto Finance Jeff DeGarmo, 503-201-4370 Nationwide Northwest, LLC Mark Tischer, 503-339-4165 Reliable Credit Association David Marx, 503-462-3022 Gold Acceptance/ Oregon Auto Finance 1700 Valley River Dr. #300 Eugene, OR 97401 Gary Veum, 541-868-0472 CrosspointNW Dealer Auction Brian Hardy, 503-457-4000 United Finance: Burnside, 503-232-5153 Eugene, 503-342-7671 Salem, 503-585-6411 Medford, 541-779-7391 Manheim Portland Auto Auction 503-286-3000 SmartwayAdvisors Sheldon Harris, 503-795-7700 OUT-OF-STATE AUCTIONS FLOORPLAN FINANCING Adesa Seattle Auto Auction Jason Arcaro, 253-735-1600 x 213 Floorplan Xpress Sean Fodrea, 503-621-9260 [email protected] Brasher’s Northwest Auto Auction Lisa Larkin, 800-905-3901 • Compliance trends and changes for 2013 and beyond • Managing your social brand and leveraging partners’ Internet presence • F&I and operational improvements as business enablers • Strategic and proactive sales tactics Exhibitors and sponsors will also set aside dedicated time to explore product solutions to dealer challenges. Dealer’s Auto Auction Northwest Steve Doyle, 509-244-4500 For information on these programs and much more go to www.niada.com Petersen Auction Group of Oregon Curt & Susan Davis, 541-689-6824 Moderated by Joe Lescota, NIADA Director of Dealer Development, this unique and cost-effective 20 Group 14 | OIADA January 2013 DEALER SOFTWARE Auto Marketing Associates Northwest Gary Palaniuk, 503-519-7725 provides a rare opportunity for retail and BHPH dealers to share successful ideas and best business practices. Join us for one of four sessions in 2013: INSURANCE & BONDING ADVERTISING Manheim Seattle Auto Auction Julie Picard, 206-762-1600 PUBLIC AUCTIONS Insurance Auto Auctions, Inc. Ryan Hall, 503-253-1500 Dealer Services Corporation Garrett Jorewicz, 866-230-0820 Consumer Insurance USA Robert Wells, 877-431-0970 SERVICE CONTRACTS A.U.L. Corporation Gina Eagerton, 800-826-3207 Automotive Business Developers Shannon Meany, 541-944-9186 Auto Marketing Associates Northwest Gary Palaniuk, 503-519-7725 Auto Services Company Dick Proudfoot, 503-705-7597 A.U.L. Corp/ D.P.C. Inc. Jim Bangert, 360-834-3333 Protective - Asset Protection Division Dylan Doran, 818-836-1455 GWC Warranty 800-482-7357 ext. 767 TRAINING OIADA: Continuing Education, Title & Registration, & Pre-licensing Wendy Riggi, 800-447-0302 Automotive Business Developers Shannon Meany, 541-944-9186 HEALTH CARE & BENEFITS The Summit Group of Oregon, LLC John Petrie, 503-581-2825 Woodburn Auction Steve Morin, 503-981-8185 OIADA December 2012 | 14 OIADA January 2013 | 15 Read & Respond and Certify Below OIADA CONTINUING EDUCATION PROGRAM Complete this test and Certify below that you have read the articles for January 2013 Compliance Over Drive Though the law is different in every state, most have passed some version of the model Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) § 2-313. It provides that an express warranty is created by the seller when it makes a statement of fact or promise to the buyer relating to the goods, which becomes part of the basis of the bargain. True _____ False _____ A disclaimer will wipe out all promises made by a sales person True _____ False _____ By creating consistency throughout the sales process and making sure that the lines of communication between the sales staff and F&I are open, this can help mitigate a risk for your dealership. True _____ False _____ The Environmentally Conscious Dealer Name 2 vehicles list that are 100% electric 1)_____________________ 2) _____________________ Name 2 ways your dealership can become more environmentally conscious 1)_____________________ 2)______________________ ANNIVERSARY SALE Celebrating 22 Years 23 Nine O’Clock WEDNESDAY January ® When using a smart phone app it is not important to make sure the customers’ information is being retained in accordance with the dealer’s privacy policy. True _____ False _____ I certify to OIADA that I have personally read these articles in The Oregon Dealer News Magazine for #01-2013 My Name __________________________________________________________________________(printed) Dealership Name ___________________________________________________________________________ Dealer License Expiration Date:_______________________________ Dealership #_____________________ Signed: __________________________________________________________Date _____________________ FAX TO: 503-364-7331 or mail to OIADA, 1475 Capitol St. NE, Salem, Oregon 97301 16 | OIADA January 2013 700+ Units | 7 Lanes 90485 Auction Way EUGENE, OR www.brashersnw.com 800.905.3901 PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Albany, OR PERMIT NO. 188 1475 Capitol St. NE Salem, OR 97301 503.362.6839 ●800.447.0302 Fax: 503.364.7331
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