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Monday, August 3, 2009

In The News!

THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

January 11, 2009

More than a deal
Dan Gearino

In a year when the auto industry stood near death's door, a Northeast Side used-car lot nearly doubled its sales.

Miracle Motor Mart, 2380 Morse Rd., has done this despite a blink-and-you-miss-it location and offices that would be at home in a trailer park.

The modest setting is part of co-owner Mike D'Andrea's design.

This former Ohio State University linebacker who played for Woody Hayes has built his business on high volume and low overhead. He also built it on his religious faith, an aspect that he was reluctant to discuss, even though a cross is the most prominent element of the Miracle Motor sign.

"We don't preach to customers," he said in one of the two office trailers that sit on the lot. "We want to live it."

His family is an essential part of the business. Two of his brothers work there, along with two of his daughters. His Buckeyes extended family is represented, too. Luther Henson, who played defensive lineman for OSU and the New England Patriots, is a soft-spoken salesman.

On a recent Monday morning, the phones were ringing and three customers had found their way to the 1-acre lot. The buzz of activity was on a day that is typically one of the slowest of the week and in a month that is typically one of the slowest of the year.

Miracle Motor's performance has been in dramatic contrast with its competition. The company sold 1,185 vehicles in 2008, up 83 percent from the year before, according to registration data compiled by Autoview Online. That was by far the best percentage increase for any car dealer in central Ohio with sales of at least 1,000 vehicles.

As a whole, central Ohio dealers saw their sales drop 10 percent last year, including new and used cars. The drop was 8 percent for used cars.

The increase at Miracle Motor is tied to the company's decision to expand its inventory of vehicles to $3 million at a time, up from about $1.8 million before. With the added selection, the business needed more salespeople and more storage space. The sales staff expanded from four to seven, and the company rented a lot a few blocks away to store excess inventory.

Many of the ideas behind the expansion came from a new partner, Mark Meadows, who bought a 50 percent stake from D'Andrea early last year. In hindsight, it was a risky time for any small business to make a major investment, right as a major economic downturn set in.

But this business was equipped to survive. The average sale price of about $11,000 meant that its products were affordable at a time when car customers were turning away from new-car dealers and looking for savings. Tight credit markets, a curse for most dealers, helped heighten customers' interest in lower-priced options.

Meadows also brought several decades of experience as a manager for central Ohio auto dealers. Among his previous jobs was a stint at Ricart Automotive, the largest Ford dealer in the region. Underscoring the small world of the local car business, Meadows' sister is married to Ricart's co-owner, Fred Ricart.

The car lot has the same unassuming look as before. The differences are behind the scenes, such as a focus on developing sales leads through the Internet and a pricing strategy that accepts lower profit in exchange for the increase in sales volume generated by low prices.

Although many of the specifics at Miracle Motor are unique, the company's business model is similar to what has helped many used-car dealerships succeed in an otherwise troubled industry, said Philip Reed, senior consumer advice editor for Edmunds.com.

"Independent used-car lots can exist in a world of their own," he said.

Of all the car-retail channels, the only group offering lower prices than used-car lots is private owners, Reed said.

But there are potential drawbacks, he said. For example, independent used-car lots often can't match certified used-car warranty programs that new-car dealers offer as part of the purchase price.

Instead, used-car lots often have optional extended warranties from third-party providers. Miracle Motor offers a five-year warranty for about $1,300 that is designed to be similar to the factory warranty for a new car.

Miracle Motor, its cars, customers and commitment to family spring from its founder and the challenges he faced as a young adult.

D'Andrea grew up in Akron, the sixth in a family of 11 children. He came to Columbus in 1978 to play football at OSU. After college, D'Andrea was invited to try out for the Minnesota Vikings. His professional career never made it out of training camp; he was cut before the final roster was named.

He returned to Columbus in 1981 and threw himself into a new job as a car salesman. He was quickly promoted to management, but he didn't have time for much else.

One of the priorities he neglected was his family, he said. He had married his high-school sweetheart in 1982. The first of their seven children was born in 1984. As his family grew, he had less and less time and energy for it. His focus on work reached a peak in 1986 when he started his own business, Big 10 Auto Sales, on the East Side.

"I was very successful in business, but I had no inner peace," he said.

In the summer of 1987, his mother persuaded him to join her on a trip to Medugorje in the country then known as Yugoslavia. They were among the many visitors to a shrine made famous a few years earlier by six children who said they had seen an apparition of the Virgin Mary.

D'Andrea came home with a desire to renew his Catholic faith and become more dedicated to his family.

In 1989, he sold Big 10 Auto Sales and started a new business in Whitehall with the Miracle Motor name. That business was closed on Sundays and encouraged all employees to have a sensible balance between work and family.

He expanded to Morse Road in 1996, and later consolidated the business at that location.

He was joined in the business soon after by Henson, described by co-workers as the most prolific salesman. He is 6 feet tall and weighed 275 pounds during his playing days. Despite his imposing size, his voice is soft and his sentences are short.

"I just try to keep a good work ethic," he said.

For customers who would prefer rapid-fire talk -- and a few jokes -- there's Mike Armstrong, who started last year. Earlier, he was a stand-up comedian, actor and writer. He had small parts on television shows such as Martin and The Jamie Foxx Show, and might be most recognizable to local audiences from his ads for Safe Auto insurance.

"I laugh a lot," he said.

Armstrong has embraced the Internet as his main source for sales leads. Most of his customers learn of a vehicle on the Internet and make an appointment to see him, rather than just showing up on the lot. Thanks to national car-buying Web sites, some of those customers come from as far as New Hampshire and Florida.

D'Andrea's main role in day-to-day operations is as a buyer of vehicles. He goes to three local auctions per week. The majority of the cars he buys are lease returns that are less than 3 years old. A little more than half of them go to the lot for sale. The rest are sold to other car dealers for their used-car inventories.

Much of D'Andrea's work can be done at home, which has been his goal all along.

Looking ahead, he said he would be happy if he sells as many cars in 2009 as he did in 2008.

One obstacle is the recent decline in lease programs at new-car dealers. Dealers and lenders have soured on the concept because they have been burned by the rapid depreciation in resale values for certain models. If the recent leasing decline turns into a long-term trend, businesses like Miracle Motor will have fewer lease returns to choose from, which will lead to higher auction prices.

D'Andrea said he is aware of the potential for problems and is ready to adjust. In this Buckeyes-centric environment, his assessment sounds like something he probably heard on the football field.

"The biggest room here is the room for improvement," he said.



2380 Morse Rd
Columbus, OH 43229
614-337-0037

For more information contact:
Angelo D'Andrea
www.miraclemotormart.com
614-337-0037
angelo@miraclemotormart.com

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Who is a customer?

When asked the question: “What is the purpose of any business?” On simple terms the answer seems pretty easy. And most people would answer it simply: “To make a profit,” they’d say. At Miracle Motor Mart it is not our answer, and has always been the WRONG ANSWER!

One who is widely considered to be the father of modern management, Peter Drucker, summed up the purpose of any business this way: “There is only one valid definition of business purpose: to CREATE A CUSTOMER.”

At Miracle Motor Mart our customers are our ultimate asset, they are our company’s real value!

YOU are our ULTIMATE and only REAL VALUE!





For more information contact:
www.miraclemotormart.com
614-337-0037

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

www.Miracle Motor Mart.com: Checking Your Oil Level

www.Miracle Motor Mart.com: Checking Your Oil Level

Checking Your Oil Level

This is something that should be required learning when taking a drivers education course and/or new driver's exam. While cars continue to improve in quality it is still necessary to check one's oil level at least once a month. Many people, not just young drivers, are under the impression that the "oil" light will come on when their oil level is low. WRONG! The "oil" light is an "oil pressure" light and if it comes on you may want to stop the vehicle and have it towed to your service garage. But I digress.

Checking one's oil level is something everyone can do - it's quick and easy and it'll tell you if your engine needs oil. If the oil is too high or too low, it can cause trouble for your engine. So, here are 5 EASY STEPS to checking the oil;

1) Make sure that the vehicle is parked on level ground and wait until the engine has cooled down after driving, then locate the dipstick.

2) Pull it the dipstick and wipe it clean

3) Put the dipstick back in until the top of it is seated properly in the dip tube again.

4) Wait a moment then pull it out again.

5) Check the level of the oil. If it's between the high and low marks, you're fine. (If it's too low, add a little.) The high and low marks can be denoted by two dots, an "H" and "L" or a shaded area on the dipstick.

Why not just read the level first time around? The first time you pull the dipstick out, it will have oil all over it and it will be difficult to tell where the level is. That's why you need to wipe it on a rag to get a clean dipstick, then dip it back into the oil to get a good reading.

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Miracle Motor Mart Ranks 1st in Independent Dealers


As you can see illustrated by the graph, Miracle Motor Mart ranks 1st in total used car volume for the year in Franklin County. This is an accomplishment that we are all very proud of and that has required the efforts of our entire team.

There are several reasons we are Number One in this category but first and foremost it is that we treat our guests and customers as we ourselves would want to be treated; honestly and openly.

Life is good!

Ciao'

Angelo

Monday, June 8, 2009

Do you believe in Miracles?


Greg and Pat do, they brought their mom JoAnn in last week to see our
2008 Chevy Impala. After she test drove the car she feel in love with it.
After a couple days she was on her way back in to pick it up, sadly she suffered a stroke and had to be rushed to the hospital. She thought her dreams of a newer car were over. After much prayer she has made a full recovery. Greg and Pat came in to pick up her car for her. She is at home waiting to begin her new chance at life with her new Impala. Greg said "This was a miracle." I agree with him!

Enjoy your new Impala JoAnn

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

June's 2008 Hyundai Sonata



Happy Birthday June,

You can relax now, it is finally over. June came in last week, and
like my former clients, she could not believe the difference in our prices,
compared to other dealers. Is it a Miracle? I think so, June.

She brought her best friend Kimberly with her 3 times. Let me tell you, these women are serious about what they wanted in this car, down to the floor mats!

Thanks for your business ladies and your continued prayers!

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Bingo Time for Terri


Terri was in desperate need of a car, she was blessed to find us here
at Miracle Motor Mart. After showing her mother, and kids a few different ones, she
selected this beautiful Gold, 2006 Chrysler Pacifica. Very nice choice Terri! She also has the peace of mind 3 year/50,000 mile warranty from National Auto Care.

Terri loves to play BINGO! Hope you win some cash this week Terri! Thanks for your business and keep in touch!

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Bonnie & Clyde's Chrysler 300 Limited AWD


That's what I'm talking about, Bonnie and Clyde found the sweet spot!

www.MiracleMotorMart.com helped them find their 2006 Chrysler 300 AWD Limited, it is a classic. "Why settle for any less of a car if you don't have to," is what they said. Everywhere else they looked helped them make the decision to come see us.Now Clyde can listen to his favorite elevator music in luxury 300 style instead of in a compact car!

By the way, where are their gangsta hats?

Saturday, May 23, 2009

Sam's 2007 Kia Optima



Sam and his entire family shopped every car lot in Columbus and came to Miracle Motor Mart last. Go figure! Well, just like customers past, he found his best deal here. Happens often, were getting use to it. Sam and his lovely girl friend Tiffany now have matching Kia's. Sam is a computer genius, Tiffany just laughed when I said that. I suggest they get married while sitting in each of their cars. They like to play beautiful music together, and they are my favorite customers because they are Journey Fans, thumbs up for Steve Perry on that!

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Bill & Roslyn's 2007 Hyundai Sonata


It only took them a few days, to figure out this 2007 Hyundai Sonata, with a power moon roof, and only 11,000 miles, was a great deal. Today, Bill and Roslyn joined the 8 out of 10 visitors, who buy their cars from Miracle Motor Mart.If they don't buy the first time out, they eventually come back because of the great atmosphere, no haggle policy, and of course, the great prices. The same reason people from all over the United States and Canada buy from us. Miracle Motor Mart is proud to have this couple as part of the Miracle family.

Thanks again Bill and Roslyn,

Leslie's 2005 Saab



After seeing my ever popular video test drive, Leslie came 2.5 hours from West Virginia to buy this beautiful 2005 Saab 9-3.Searching through out the State of Ohio she found her best deal was here,at Ohio's #1 Independent dealer, Miracle Motor Mart.

What a great deal she got on this one, fully loaded, heated leather seats, power moon roof and her favorite color, dark blue. She is ready to drive back to West Virginia in Saab style.

Enjoy the new ride Leslie!

For more information contact:
Terry Marcum
www.miraclemotormart.com
614-374-3896
terry@miraclemotormart.com

Saturday, May 16, 2009

Caleb's Saturn Vue



Caleb saw us on AutoTrader.com and decided to come see
our Saturn Vue's. Since he has a 161 pound Great Dane named "Diesel"
that was feeling a Little cramped in his 1997 2 door Honda Civic, "Say What?"

Diesel will have quite a bit more room now, he will also get more doggy treats since Caleb won't have to spend his hard earned money on repairs, he added a 3 year/50,000 mile extended warranty.

Special thanks to Darolyn, Caleb's mom for making this a fun deal!

Thanks for the business Caleb!


For more information contact:
Terry Marcum
www.miraclemotormart.com
614-374-3896
terry@miraclemotormart.com

August, Tara & Cale's 2007 Honda Accord



August brought the family in today to see all our great cars! After looking at an Acura TL & RL he seen our 2006 Honda Accord EX, it was all over when they returned from the test drive. August an ex-college football player and Tara a former basketball player waisted no time, they jumped in the game immediately and scored this beautiful sedan. They will have the peace of mind 3 year/ 50,000 warranty and a long lasting family car.

They will be driving Cale to football practice in this one in a few years!

Thanks for the business guy's!

For more information contact:
Terry Marcum
www.miraclemotormart.com
www.columbuscarcounselor.blogspot.com
terry@miraclemotormart.com
614-374-3896

Thursday, May 14, 2009

Kathy & Lonnie's 2007 Dodge Caliber



They come from all over the continental U.S. and abroad.

Kathy and Lonnie came all the way from Galloway, Ohio.

The drive was exhausting, but worth it. Since Lonnie is a
body builder he did not have any endurance problems.

Kathy can rest easy knowing she has a new car to drive now.
I plan to send her video to Hollywood, she may have a future
in live on the spot video!

Thanks guys for your business and some good laughter!

For more information contact:
Terry Marcum
www.miraclemotormart.com
614-374-3896
terry@miraclemotormart.com

Pam & Kristi's Chrysler Town & Country


There you have it!

Pam & Kristi came in Saturday morning looking for a mini-van. After a 2 week adventure, that brought back memories of an over due library book,a lost cell phone and a happy bunch of kids watching their favorite DVD on their way to a game. They could not resist the opportunity to come back and see us. They drove away today in a very nice, super clean 2006 Chrysler Town & Country w/ DVD and a 3 Year/ 50,000 mile extended peace of mind warranty!

I think their first two stops before going home will be the library & the Sprint store!

Thanks for letting me help you today ladies and enjoy!



For more information contact:
Terry Marcum
www.miraclemotormart.com
614-374-3896
terry@miraclemotormart.com

Casey's Saturn Vue



Attention Everyone,

Miracle Motor Mart wants to take this moment to congratulate Casey on the purchase of her 2004 Saturn Vue. Way to go Casey! We also want to thank them for the sacrifice her, their 6 month old daughter, and her husband are making for us. He is in Iraq defending our freedom.

God Bless You and your family and enjoy the new ride!


For more information contact:
Terry Marcum
www.miraclemotormart.com
614-374-3896
terry@miraclemotormart.com

Kyle & Jenna's Chevy Tahoe


Kyle & Jenna's 2000 Chevy Tahoe

Traverse City, Michigan was ranked "3rd Best Fishing Town in America" by Field & Stream in February 2008. Knowing what it means to be among the top, Kyle and Jenna by no surprise found the #1 Independent Pre-Owned dealership in Ohio, "Miracle Motor Mart".In need of more space,they found us online and decided to travel over 7 hours in constant rain to purchase a pre-owned SUV. They found a great deal with us, traded in their 1996 Pontiac Grand-Am,loaded up their stuff, and headed right back for Traverse City. The rain is still coming down and they are looking forward to getting back home. They will be able to enjoy the great outdoors and as much of the great fishing they can handle.Now that they have a Chevy Tahoe, they may be able to get that boat after all.

Enjoy the new ride Kyle and Jenna! Send us some pictures of your next big catch.

For more information contact:
Terry Marcum
www.miraclemotormart.com
614-374-3896
terry@miraclemotormart.com

Tony's Kia Sedona


2006 Kia Sedona

On his way to play 18 holes Tony stopped in to see what we had.
He looked at several when all of the sudden he said, "I Like That One".
Tony knew what he wanted, a fully loaded 2006 Kia Sedona. Power side doors, power rear gate. Everything he needs for comfort, room and luxury. Now you will see Tony driving to the Golf course in comfort! Let's schedule a Tee-Time Tony, I can help keep the greens keepers employed this year!



For more information contact:
Terry Marcum
www.miraclemotormart.com
614-374-3896
terry@miraclemotormart.com

Chris & Family


2005 Chrysler Pacifica

Chris and his wonderful family found us online. We texted
and emailed back and forth for a couple weeks. They were finally able to shake loose from their busy schedule and make the trip in to Columbus. They came to see our 2005 Dodge Durango, but after they drove the Pacifica they couldn't resist. I can't blame them. This one was loaded! Enjoy the movies girls,may I suggest Kung Fu Panda!

Thanks again for your business!



For more information contact:
Terry Marcum
www.miraclemotormart.com
614-374-3896
terry@miraclemotormart.com

Friday, May 8, 2009

Rocco's Honda Accord


Rocco came in just before we closed. After seeing my video emails,
and seeing these great deals, he decided to come in. I had originally spoken to him
back in the winter, but it was too cold.I don't blame him,
I don't care for winter much myself.

Now that the weather has warmed up, he seen our 2006 Honda Accord online,
with only 16,000 miles. What a great buy he got on this one. He made us stay
after hours not to miss out on this great buy.

I am glad you made it out tonight Rocco, this one would have been gone by
tomorrow morning! Thanks for sticking with us through out the winter months. It paid off for you in a big way today! Tell all your friends and family to check out your story for me!

For more information contact:
Terry Marcum
www.miraclemotormart.com
614-374-3896
terry@miraclemotormart.com

Kathy's Acura TL


Kathy came in a couple days ago. She liked our 2006 Acura TSX
and our 2006 Acura TL. Unable to choose between the two, she flipped a coin.
I got it on video, but promised not show it. She decided for the TL.
2 out of 3 flips came up for the TSX. Makes sense to me...

Anyway, I can understand her delima, both cars were incredible, I tried to suggest she buy them both and she would not have to decide between the two.Kathy got a great 2006 Acura TL, fully loaded with Navigation.

Thanks for the memory Kathy, your a real sport. It was great working with you this week.I look forward to helping your family and friends with their next purchase.

Make sure they bring your lucky quarter. LOL :-D

For more information contact:
Terry Marcum
www.miraclemotormart.com
614-374-3896
terry@miraclemotormart.com

Stacey & Cody's 2004 Cadillac CTS


Stacey and Cody had sent me an email asking me a question
about our Cadillac CTS inventory. I sent them a reply, and
wallah, 5 minutes later they were at our lot. They were
tired from a full day of car shopping. Willing to give it
one more attempt we set out on a test drive journey.

It was a hard decision for them, not whether to buy but which
one they would buy. They made a great choice! The Red Line
2004 Cadillac CTS with the 3.5 V6. Completely loaded for all
their driving comforts. It will serve them well as they came from
the great Mountaineer state of West Virginia, Cody just finished
his Junior year at WVU! He will be cruising in serious style now!

Congrats Cody, keep up the good work, you
will be ahead of the business world in saving money on cars since coming
to Miracle Motor Mart.




For more information contact:
Terry Marcum
www.miraclemotormart.com
614-374-3896
terry@miraclemotormart.com

Saturday, May 2, 2009



What a treat it was to spend the afternoon with
Orla. If I did not have to sell cars today I would have
reserved a table for dinner with him and just listen to the
stories he has personally experienced over his lifetime.
Orla is a walking book of faith filled testimonies
of the goodness of God.

Thanks for your business today Orla, it was a pleasure working
with you today.You have a very nice 2006 Honda Accord EX, with
all the bells and whistles and a peace of mind 4 year/50,000
mile warranty.

Please tell all your family and friends about us.

Terry Marcum
www.MiracleMotorMart.com
614-374-3896

For more information contact:
Terry Marcum
www.miraclemotormart.com
614-374-3896
terry@miraclemotormart.com

Friday, May 1, 2009

2008 Kia Spectra


Marcellus and Lori are the proud owners of a
2008 Kia Spectra. Since Marcellus is a Michigan fan
I made sure he held our OSU umbrella for this shot.
He was a great sport and hopes Michigan can do a
little better this year.

It was no problem for Lori standing in the rain, she is a
reality TV fan, Survivor, Big Brother and CSI just to name
a few. They are excited to have a second car and the peace
of mind of a 4 year 50,000 mile extended warranty! Should
get them through the next few years just fine.

Enjoy the new car and Marcellus and Lori, I appreciate
your business! Can we get a GO BUCKS from you?

Just Kidding!

Terry Marcum
www.MiracleMotorMart.com
614-374-3896


For more information contact:
Terry Marcum
www.miraclemotormart.com
614-374-3896
terry@miraclemotormart.com

Monday, April 27, 2009

Shana's 2006 Kia Sportage







Shana came in with a "Don't Be Mean" T-shirt and a 2000 Chevy Cavalier that had 133,000 miles. She was definitely ready for more room and more comfort. After test driving the One-Owner 2006 Sportage with only 32,000 miles and a clean vehicle inspection report from Auto-Check it was hard to say no. This is a real nice V-6 LX and will help Shana for years to come! Special thanks to Brian for all his help. Enjoy the new ride and tell all your family and friends that we were not mean.

Terry Marcum
614-374-3896
terry@miraclemotormart.com

Saturday, April 25, 2009

It's Your Turn!

YOUR STORY
http://www.miraclemotormart.com/temps/index.cfm



Everybody has a story to tell, capturing the moment when you hear someone else's story is the beginning of a new memory.