Auto Dealers
Showing 417–432 of 578 results
-
A strong offense can ward off an IRS audit
November / December 2011
Newsletter: Dealer Insights
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 657
Abstract: To avoid an IRS audit, it’s important not to attract unfavorable IRS attention. Reviewers can’t audit every return, so they rely on key indicators to narrow the scope. This article lists a number of those indicators, such as the size of business loss deductions, receipts for meals and entertainment, and documentation for related-party receivables.
-
Are your firewalls “up to code”?
November / December 2011
Newsletter: Dealer Insights
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 544
Abstract: A Dealer Management System (DMS) is a primary tool in the everyday operation of a dealership. But could it also give data thieves access to customers’ personal information? This article discusses how important it is that a dealer evaluate its DMS firewalls — the bundled software designed to prevent Internet intruders from accessing nonpublic information. The article looks at the FTC rule designed to protect customer information on a DMS, and how firewalls accomplish this.
-
Revisiting what made CarMax big – Its strategies can work for you, too
November / December 2011
Newsletter: Dealer Insights
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 906
Abstract: This article examines what vaulted CarMax from start-up to retail giant — and which of its strategies might benefit any dealership. The article offers tips for implementing no-haggle pricing and other customer-centric strategies. A sidebar describes the success of CarMax in pleasing employees, too.
-
How much should you be paid?
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 845
Abstract: Among the tough decisions dealer-owners face at year end are how much money to take out of the business and how to split that amount between salaries, bonuses and dividends. Although owners’ compensation is somewhat discretionary, it needs to withstand IRS scrutiny. As this article explains, the IRS is looking for both over- and underpayments, depending on whether the subject company is a C corporation or a flow-through entity. A sidebar discusses other parties that have a vested interest in how much dealer-owners are getting paid.
-
Buying fixed assets never looked so good
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 493
Abstract: Dealerships that are considering purchasing equipment and other “fixed assets” should take a look at Section 179 and bonus depreciation deductions — they’re especially generous in 2011 but will diminish after the end of the year. This article offers details.
-
Nip it in the bud – Background checks thwart fraud, but be careful
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 738
Abstract: No matter how strong a dealer’s internal controls, it needs to “begin at the beginning” with complete employee background checks. It’s one of the best ways to protect one’s business and customers, although it’s still important to be careful with the final decision. This article explains how to conduct background checks without violating privacy rights and other laws, and why dealers that choose to hire an outside agency need to check its credentials.
-
Your next warranty audit: Be prepared!
Fall 2011
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 641
Abstract: Manufacturers’ periodic warranty audits have become more frequent as they seek ways to compensate for more dealer-friendly warranty laws that some states have passed to increase warranty reimbursement rates and eliminate manufacturer surcharges. Every dealer gets audited at least once, so this article shows how they can prepare.
-
Dealer Digest – Repeal of the expansion of Form 1099 reporting
September / October 2011
Newsletter: Dealer Insights
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 422
Abstract: This issue’s “Dealer Digest” looks at the repeal of legislation that would have required significant expansion of Form 1099 reporting; improved opportunities for auto loan financing, although the subprime market is lagging; and some innovative sales techniques Down Under.
-
Is it a maintenance expense or a capital improvement?
September / October 2011
Newsletter: Dealer Insights
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 420
Abstract: If a dealer puts on a new roof, tiles the showroom floor or makes cosmetic changes, is it a maintenance expense that can be fully deducted on the 2011 tax return or a capital improvement that must be depreciated over a longer period? The wrong approach may mean more money now but trouble with the IRS later. This article notes that the IRS is looking at this area with increased scrutiny, and gives examples of projects that the agency regards as capital improvements.
-
How to find out your dealership’s value
September / October 2011
Newsletter: Dealer Insights
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 957
Abstract: A business valuation is essential when selling a dealership, but it can be beneficial in other circumstances, such as when drafting a buy-sell agreement or preparing an estate plan. This article shows how valuators consider tangible and intangible assets, a wide range of valuation multiples and cap rates, and many other factors that can affect value. A sidebar explains that, for dealers who are selling their business, a valuator can prepare financial statements for buyer scrutiny by making various adjustments to earnings — a process called “normalizing.”
-
Dos and don’ts for boosting service department profits
September / October 2011
Newsletter: Dealer Insights
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 718
Abstract: Revenue from maintenance and repairs combined with income from vehicle sales makes the world go round for auto dealerships. And when car and truck sales are down, service department profits can be a bread-and-butter source. This article offers some dos and don’ts that dealers should consider as they manage this golden egg. The suggestions cover metrics, staffing, pricing, operations and customer service.
-
Dealer Digest – Why do potential customers leave?
July / August 2011
Newsletter: Dealer Insights
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 407
Abstract: This issue’s &ldquoDealer Digest” looks at the real reasons many customers leave a dealership without buying; the recent jump in new vehicle sales; and the IRS’s relaxation of lien-filing practices.
-
4 tips for the digital dealership
July / August 2011
Newsletter: Dealer Insights
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 346
Abstract: This article offers four tips to attract customers by being more digitally proactive. They involve trying new search engine optimization strategies, hosting a mobile website, starting a blog, and marketing via social media.
-
Preparing for the annual audit
July / August 2011
Newsletter: Dealer Insights
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 851
Abstract: Dealers can make an audit engagement run smoothly if they have general knowledge of the audit process and their role in it. This article explains who ought to perform the audit, what documents they’ll need to examine, and how to prepare for an inventory count. It also describes the management points that good auditors will present when they deliver the financial statements.
-
Shielding your assets – Make moves to protect your wealth
July / August 2011
Newsletter: Dealer Insights
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 938
Abstract: Potential creditors, a plaintiff in a lawsuit or a business failure could threaten the wealth that a dealer has collected over a lifetime. This article offers descriptions — and some of the pros and cons — of three vehicles available for shielding assets from risks: family limited partnerships, offshore trusts, and Crummey trusts. A sidebar explains the importance of having a prenuptial agreement to protect assets.
-
Get gassed up to sell green cars
Summer 2011
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 323
Abstract: With gas prices what they are today, it can be tough for dealerships and their customers. But today’s record-high gas prices can be a selling tool. Appealing to buyers’ green sides may require salespeople to retool their sales tactics, however. This short article offers a few tips.