Are agents economizing their mode of transportation?  Is it happening in your neck of the woods?  Are agents changing their mode of transportation? I had not paid much attention, until my buying couple brought  up the subject when we were looking at homes in Haiku Plantation, Oahu, an area of million dollar homes.  As we drove around viewing open houses, my clients noticed a 'high profile' agent  driving a 2 seater mini cooper and then viewed other previewing agents in Toyota Tercels, 2 seater mini sports cars and other sub compacts.  The client commented, "how do these agents drive their clients around?".  It IS being economical.  It IS saving, however, how much do you pay to make impressions.  AND what is "making an impression" vs "branding or promotion" in this case of cars. When I later asked one of the agents about driving a small economical sports car, the comment was "when my client sees me in this...(small car), they feel sorry for me, so, they offer to drive ME around instead!"
COMMENT: a  frame that surrounded the license plate of a compact automobile said "My Other Car is a Mercedes."

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15 Comments on Are agents economizing their mode of transportation?

NOV
29
2011
122,737 Points 2 Featured Posts Called Shot Master

I do not think we need SUV's to sell houses but a mini-cooper is a bit ridiculous.  I drive gas guzzling older, paid for, cars... If my clients look at me funny I just inform them that I am paying tuition for 3 children and that is where my earning go!
1:37am • #1
272,697 Points 4 Featured Posts Outside Blog

I chose something in between.  I drive a Subaru Tribeca, it is great in the winter here, I rarely have an issue seeing any property, 4 people fit, and it is still fairly economical.  I do not buy new, I buy gently used, and drive them for lots of miles before looking for a new one.  I think you can be economical and practical for business!
1:42am • #2
138,540 Points Outside Blog

That's saying it Debbie!  May you be blessed with a dozen + additional sales in 2012.  To the next generation.  That's AMERICA's future.
1:47am • #3
138,540 Points Outside Blog

Yes, Jennifer, I can surely say you NEED a high mileage automobile.  We have been through Bozeman when we stayed at CHICO Hot Springs.  Ate at the Costco there when we went to buy some items for the cabin we stayed in.  I'm sure your listings are sometimes FAR FAR inbetween.  The furtherest listing we can get away from our office here on Oahu is less than 40 miles!
1:51am • #4
2 Featured Posts

It's funny - I remember showing houses out of my old 68 mustang.....clients didn't complain...too much...
1:55am • #5
668,996 Points 2 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

I think that we still need cars that will transport our clients and their children if necessary.
1:56am • #6
138,540 Points Outside Blog

Well Brett, I was not as fancy as you but I drove people around in a Datsun B-210 hatchback.  My customer, who drove a rusted out, sun faded 1959 Ford Pickup bought a 70 acre Papaya Plantation when I represented him as a buyer and he paid CASH!  Sometimes you can never tell how well heeled your customer is by the automobile they drive.
2:07am • #7
603,374 Points

Hi Bruce...I feel that a combination of comfort, economics and safety are in order...Like your post and thanks for sharing..
2:10am • #8
820,750 Points 5 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Interesting trend to spot, thanks for sharing it.

 
2:12am • #9
1,030,137 Points 67 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

I have a 4-seater Mini that I bought to drive my dogs.  I also have a Lexus SUV that is difficult for my 80lb male English Springer Spaniel to get into....they like the Mini and I drive it alot - I can get a sign in it and it is great on gas!
2:48am • #10
109,437 Points Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Bruce, I have not noticed that trend in Rhode Island but it seems like it would be bad for business.
2:51am • #11
381,312 Points 10 Featured Posts Outside Blog Hit Router Called Shot Master

I could care less what you drive if you know what you are doing we are fine if you dont you can drive a Lamborghini and we are not good... Make knowledge your priority and you will be fine
3:58am • #12
557,602 Points 31 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Hi Bruce,

We are in different times.

The old idea that a realtors success is measured byt eh car that he is driving (and can't afford) is going away. I still drive my 3 ton Lincoln Navigator, with it 13.9 miles to a gallon.

But more and more, I look longingly at the Priuses at the pump, which come and go long before I have filled up.

I am even looking at all electric cars as my next car.

Phil
6:31am • #13
382,271 Points 5 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Bruce, 

I'm probably not thinking a Mini works for me, well unless it's a convertible mini!  I drive an 10 year old Mercedes - yes guzzles gas, but feels safe and very nice to be paid for.  

Now, as I begin looking for my next car, will I take better gas mileage into consideration?  You bet!  

All the best, Michelle
8:25am • #14
411,262 Points 1 Featured Post Outside Blog Called Shot Master

 

I met an agent who rides his vespa to  appointments, he  does  own a car but doesn't drive buyers around because it will cost him more on his car insurance. 
9:49am • #15

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