We have all heard the phrase “first impression’s last”. Does it apply to every career or every person? Pretty much yes. As someone who is into selling properties and other houses, what is the wisest decision in terms of your appearance? Flashy and luxury or modest and humble? This also applies to the car you drive. If you are a real estate agent, do you need a car in the first place? If you already have one, should you upgrade? If you are looking to buy one, which one should you buy?
If a real estate agent drives a 2021 Toyota Camry, does it mean he is not as successful as someone who drives a 2021 Porsche 911? Well, as a real estate agent, choosing a car to drive can be tricky. You can either intimidate your customers if you are too flashy, or you may become underwhelming in their eyes if you drive a car that’s too dirty and old. You must choose your car according to the range of customers you are targeting. There are different strata of people and you must make your decision wisely.
Does a real estate agent absolutely need a car?
In the US, over 90% of households already own a car. So, chances are that most real estate agents already do own a car. But let’s say you are trying to start your career as a real estate agent and don’t own a car, should you get one?
For starters, public transportation might not be the best option for someone into selling houses and properties. Yes, it might be a lot cheaper, but it poses a lot of problems. Using public transportation makes commuting usually a lot slower.
In order to meet up with your clients at the right time, you don’t always want to be dependent on public transportation. Punctuality is also a big virtue that will elevate your career. If you aren’t punctual, you cannot be successful. Public transportation also means you might have to be in long queues or inside a crowded bus or train, which also might ruin your mood somewhat. Also, they might not be available all the time due to one reason or the other.
The biggest issue with public transports is that they do not have access to all the areas that you might want to go to, for example, the suburbs or the rural areas. In times like these, it is absolutely necessary for you to own a car for easy transport and to quickly reach your destination. You can also pick your client up on the way as a good gesture. So, yes, owning a car is a big plus for anyone looking to start a career in the real estate business.
Which type of car should you choose?
Owning and driving a luxury car doesn’t always work out in your favor if you are a real estate agent. Neither does driving an old car favor you. It largely depends on the type of property you are trying to sell.
Imagine that, you are a middle-class earner who wants to want a middle-class house in the suburbs, and so you contact a real estate agent. If he drives up in his luxurious Chevrolet Corvette, would you be more truthful towards him than someone who drives a Honda Accord?
Being a beginner in the industry, you might not have the capital to buy a luxurious car to drive it around. Even if you do, people might get intimidated by you, thinking that you would not relate to their needs and understand their situation. Similarly, if you drive up in an old and dusty car, customers might think that you are unsuccessful and would not want to hire you anyway.
However, if you show up in a relatively newer model which is considered above average for most people, you might just earn the trust of the customers. But then again, if you are selling luxurious properties for aristocrats, showing up in that above-average car might just ruin your chances.
As you grow throughout your career, so do your skills and your budget. Driving an old and dirty car is never a good idea, but if you own a relatively modern car that is common among people, the customers might think that you are somewhat relatable to them and they might begin to feel comfortable with you. Throughout your career, as you become more and more successful and target higher clients, you can also upgrade your ride to further suit your needs and your impression.
You must also look for cars that are fuel-efficient. Bearing in mind the fact that you will be spending most of your time on the road, commuting from one destination to the next, a fuel-friendly car is a must. A gas guzzler might have the pomp and pleasure but it depletes your pocket sooner than you can fill it. Japanese cars are probably the best choice.
Some Toyotas, Hondas, Subarus, and even Mazdas do not cost a lot but offer a great set of features and also good fuel economy. If you already have a family car, it can also be used for your business purposes, especially if you do not have any other alternatives. Also, buying a used car is not a bad idea. You just need to keep the car clean and presentable and maintain it regularly.
Real estate agents can also look for electric cars as they are not only eco-friendly but also save tons of money each year on fuel consumption. Though they are costly to own, they will save you a lot of money in the long run. Tesla is the most well-known company for electric vehicles, but nowadays, companies like Nissan, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Jaguar are also coming out with their own electric vehicles. If you can afford them, then it might also impress your customers.
Does the type of car you drive say everything about you?
Of course not. Even if you drive a luxury car or a dusty old car, it does not have the final say. You need to be well-mannered, well-suited, and dressed and know how to do your job. Surely, owning the best car does not have a say in whether customers will want to do business with you or not, but the first impression that you will have on the customers will determine everything.
The first impression plays a huge role and the manner in which you show up at the spot will have a big say in the success, even though it might not be the final one.
