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What does your car look like?

When purchasing a new vehicle 18 months ago, my wife and I took into account that I was going to start doing real estate and expanding our family in the future. We settled on a Jet Black Mazda 5, which has the space of a minivan with the sleekness of a sports car. We really enjoy that car a lot. I have noticed that many realtors tend to drive Mercedes, BMW's, Cadillac, Jaguars, etc. Does it make a difference to have a high end car? I don't know. In addition, do most realtors have a car that is used for business and one that is used for family? or do they have one car that meets both needs? My wife asked me this question yesterday, and I could not give her an answer, so please sound off and let me know how you would answer this question.

Posted by Matthew Zgonc, Realtor, CFS, CVS on 12/13/2007 04:10 PM

Comments (62)

real estate, buy, sell, modesto, active rain, cars, automobiles

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62 Comments on What does your car look like?

DEC

2007

Most agents try to drive more expensive cars because clients will view them as being more successful than someone who doesn't. In this business, at least in CA, image means alot, unfortunately. That's the world we live. As to your questions whether or not they have more than one car. I don't believe so. I know that I don't. If my wife and I go out for the evening we take my car but if we do errands we take her car.

I bought a Mercedes because I wanted a small sports car that would last me at least a decade, and I've got about 2 more years to go before I hit that mark. However, since it holds two people, I have often ride with my clients or else I borrow my husband's Prius. But I don't own two cars. As Zen pointed out, though, clients expect agents to drive expensive cars. And I do work in California, where that perception is the norm. Image is everything, even if the agent is upside down and forking out $1,000 a month for a lease.

I bought a used Jeep Cherokee - in great shape - only two years old - and it is, by far, the best vehicle I have ever had. I can carry stuff, I can carry clients, I can go off road. It does it all, and does it looking good. My wife has a Z3, and it is fun to drive, For about 5 minutes. Then I am over it.

I had this same discussion with an agent in the Houston area. I guess the perception is the same here because she is determined to buy a Mercedes. We don't want to think we are influenced by what a person drives but I guess in most cases we are. I don't believe that the type of car sets the standard. I believe the car should be comfortable for any and everyone that may be traveling with you, and it must be neat and clean, in really good condition. That is what sets the standard for me.

I drive a 2003 Toyota Tacoma...not exactly the luxurious Realtor-mobile that many of my colleagues drive, but it gets the job done. I fear that if I purchase the car I really want (with a payment I DON'T want), then I will magically stop selling!

Image is everything. Would you work with an agent if the drove a worn out car>

DEC

2007

I think that image is everything, as well. But I wanted to be sure that it just wasn't my impression.

Scott: I actually worked with an agent that drove a 93 honda civic.

DEC

2007

Matthew, It is sad but a lot of prospects look at what you are driving and judge you by that benchmark. I drive a Chev Pickup and my wife had a KIA Optima, the best car she has ever owned as far as good service, gas milage etc. However she just purchased a Lexus RX330 SUV and I hope it makes a big impression because the payments do make an impression on the check book.

Don Eichler

I just got a new car for real estate needs and decided on the Acura TL. It is luxurious but not too snobby for middle market clients. It is a great car! If I am showing land, I'll use my Chevy 2500HD. A very important consideration if you plan to have clients in your car, you need a comfortable backseat.

DEC

2007

Rene: I agree totally. They need to be comfy otherwise they will not have a good experience.

Don: I bet it did. I don't really know if it makes much of a difference to people. The key to me is that they car should look clean and be comfy. If that is the case, then you should be okay. Let me know if it makes a difference, though.

I was wondering the same thing and discussed with my wife last week. I live in the south in an area that has a lot of rural homes. Several of the top agents here drive very nice large 4 door trucks. It easily carries 4 people and can get them anywhere they need to go. All have a side step so that it is easy to get in and out for all ages. Like you said, image is everything and in parts of the south, trucks rule!

DEC

2007

That is a good point Calvin. Every part of the country will expect different styles of cars.

Image might be everything but sometimes I think you can go too far...depends on your clients. My clients for the most part are the $100k to 250k range and are everyday working people like myself. I believe in mirroring my clients, I can tell you that a sleek balck Mercedes would probably be a turnoff to them.

I currently drive a 2003 Chevy Trailblazer which works for me as a real estate vehicle and as a family vehicle...not to mention...it pulls our camper just fine...LOL. Don't believe I could do that with a Mercedes 500 series.

I do what applies to my life and situation, I try no tto be "ego-driven" in my choices.

I think this is a 2-part answer. Image can be everything but you are also expected to look like you have something worth sharing. I wouldn't want to ride around in an agent's 1986 Corolla. It makes me think he isn't handling his finances well enough to handle mine. I don't want to overdo it. I just want it to be clean and ready to hit the road.

I agree Latonia. There are agents in our area that use their 1986 Corolla for Real Estate, and I think it is tacky. However, I also don't think you necessarily have to have a BMW or Mercedes.

As For Me I am almost to be agent I just need to take my exam. I think any car is fine so long it is good shape doesnt matter on the brand or whatever. Here in Hawaii realtors dive a range of cars from luxury to ford's with rims and so on.

As for me I am driving a ford f-150. Soon to be putting rims in the new year. Car Apperance isn't everything it is how you do your work that matters.

I agree that how you do your work is what matters. However, in certain parts of the country, clients will run if they see you in an old car.

Perception is important but I don't think too many people judge you by the car you drive. ( a really bad car might be an exception) One of the richest people I know drives an old Dodge van, and I know a very poor person that drives a new Cadillac with a 4 year payment book. Did you ever get a listing or buyer because of the car you drive?

Good point Hank! However, I do know realtors that have lost clients because of their car (at least that is what they had told me). I do agree that the majority of people want substance over bling.

Jeffery, I agree that you should try to mirror your clients or maybe a step up from their lifestyle. You want to be someone they can relate to. Driving a rolls royce or mercedes may not be the best fit while trying to sell homes around the 60K-120K range.

everyone has there own opinions....Whatever works for you works for them

I believe you should drive a fairly late model car thet is comfortable. I drive A 2002 Buick LeSabre with all the bells and whistles. My husband drives a 2006 Mercury Grand Marquis. In my opinion, a Lexus or MB only strengthens the public perception that real estate agents are overpaid. Hybrid, no. Full size medium priced car, yes.

It is sad that many people think that real estate agents are overpaid. Maybe our image is adding to that problem.

Matthew - it looks like you wrote about a topic that generates lots of comments. I hope our input helps you in your decision. I forgot to mention earlier the TL is mostly (70%) made in USA. We need to help our US economy :)

Thanks Renee. I agree that helping our US economy is definitely a plus, I just wish that many of the cars were made with better quality.

DEC

2007

Let me ask you this: If you were ready to sell your home (your most important financial asset) and you saw an agent pull up in a beat up Hyndai that should have been put to rest 5 years ago or a brand new Beamer, which one would you feel more comfortable listing your home with? I would say the Beamer even though I drive a 2007 Honda Accord

I just purchased the 2008 new Honda Accord EX-L-V6 which has all the bells and whistles of higher end cars- but, cost about $12,000 less. My Honda has leather, heated seats, sun roof, heated mirrows, XM radio, plenty of space. So far, my Clients love it.

But, overall, I think professionalism, follow up, knowledge, and ethics far out weight the car you drive.

DEC

2007

I agree with you Michael. Most people would probably go with the one that has the "most" successful image. Which agent would a person choose if it was a brand new Mazda Tribute or a BMW? By the way how is being a dad? It's good to hear from you again.

Rick: I think that there has to be substance behind the agent, otherwise it doesn't matter what kind of car you drive, the customer will go elsewhere.

DEC

2007

I drive a 1999 Benz My husband found it o E-Bay. I'm right out side Washington D.C. and image is an issue. But, our other car the 92 Volvo wagon is more sought after. I get about 3 offers a month from people who want to buy it. I've been tempted to use it as a deal maker several times to get a listing except my daughter will need it to go to college in.

Carol Nova star

I think the area or region actually dictates the car you should drive. In my part of California, a nice up-to-date car will be fine. I believe it depends upon the audience you are trying to get to.

DEC

2007

It is sad we have to think of image. Society dictates so much to how we move along in our every day living.

I live in Maine and since many of the roads I travel during showings might be on a dirt road which is private and the association doesn't keep it in good repair. I and many others in my area drive mini vans and jeeps with all wheel drive. In the summer I drive a little two seater, and that keeps me safe. I let the buyers follow me in their own vehicle.

sue from Maine

JAN

2008

I heard alot of realtors are returning their lease cars early. And the most returns are bmw's and mercedes.

Rose

TOUCHDOWN REAL ESTATE

Well I also think that the cars change depending on necessity and areas in which we live. It is sad that image is important in some areas, but again if a person is professional it won't matter too much what they drive.

JAN

2008

I am an agent in the Cleveland area. I actually bought a Mazda5 due to the fact that I need to put people in and out of my car. I really can't think of a better car for the money for this job. I always keep it really neat and clean. It has a new modern appearance but it's also not a wallet buster either for us newer agents. I got it fully loaded with the navigation system (its the impressive feature since it doesn't have the Mercedes or BMW symbol). Perfect decision. It is also good for helping people move or for vacations via the open road. I put over 50,000 mile on my car and I've only had it two and a half years.

I would not be able to get by without the navigation system. It has made a world of difference in finding places faster. I love the Mazda 5 as well. Not only can it carry up to 7, but it has bucket seats and plenty of leg room.

Matthew, I use a SUV for business, a sedan for family.

Thanks Gary. I appreciate the input. What type of SUV and Sedan if it is not too much trouble.

JAN

2008

In my case Ford Explorer and Dodge Intrepid. Next vehicle for business will probably be a Crossover SUV or Hybrid.

JAN

2008

I like the crossovers and hybrids. My parents have a Hybrid Land Cruiser and it has saved them so much in gas that the extra price was worth it.

I feel like I live in my car. I owned a Toyota Yaris which was excellent on fuel. I needed that fuel economy. I recently gave the car to my stepson to use for work and school. A few weeks ago we purchased a Chevy Cobalt, four door, mainly for business use. In my area I do not think the type of vehicle makes a difference, but I still believe the car should look good and remain clean at all times. It is a reflection of me and my business.

JAN

2008

Most people don't want a realtor that has a messy car. Messy car, unorganized in business.

JAN

2008

My husband and I buy only American (mostly made in America anyway) made cars. That is a personal choice of ours. So most of the cars mentioned are not ones we would buy so can't help you there. We both drive Chevy trucks. Mine is a Suburban. To put it bluntly.....I don't give a fig what my customers think about what I drive. I am selling houses not vehicles. We have 8 kids so a Suburban is a must in our family. Not to mention...I feel like I am in a go-kart when I am in a car and just don't feel safe. IF you were going to get into a wreck with a truck hitting you would you rather be driving a truck yourself or a little Honda? For me and my kids......I want to have a fighting chance of surviving a wreck and if I had to guess I'd say at least 60% of the vehicles where we live are big farm trucks. My neighbor's daughter was in a head on collision last week in a Geo MEtro. She's lucky she survived it.

I refuse to put a customer in my vehicle for safety reasons anymore. I drove around a few people and then found out one was arecent exconvict and from that point on my policy is they have to drive themselves and follow me or meet me there unless they are friend or family.

I wash my car every two weeks, more if it rains. I do think it is most important to keep your vehicle clean and presentable but the flashy side of it is not for me.

APR

2008

I've seem many who have went overboard and bought expensive cars and left the business as clients were buying their ability to help them and they were selling what type of car they owned.

I advise drive what you can afford, like and fits your lifestyle. Keeping up with the Jones will one day bite you in other ways as if you bite on cars , you'll find something else to bite on later.

Many realty people have their self-esteem in their cars. It is a car! Keep it clean and functional and sell yourself and not hope your car sells you. There are some people whom a fancy car will turn off and cause them not to want to do business with you.

If the car is to complete you that's not fine, but it is okay. But, if it is for your clients, you might be off-base and get thrown out one day.

Guys have fell for this many times in the past, get a car, get a girl. Them she dump you car and all. It wasn't about the car, it was about you!

I think you should drive the car that your customer base drives. I like to market to outdoors people, so I drive a loaded F-150.

As long as your car is large enough and comfortable enought to accomodate your clients, I really don't think the brand matters. What does matter of course is that it is clean and tidy and presents a professional appearance. That said, I like what Brad had to say about it reflecting the preference of your customer base.

With regard to having a separate vehicle for busines/family use . . . I guess it really depends on you. My husband and I both have vehicles that we use for business and then we have "toys" too that we use for fun.

Good Luck & Good Selling!

I think alot of it has to do with what type of clients you mainly deal with,for upper range homes you need a more expensive car than lower to middle range home buyers

APR

2008

Somehow I came upon this blog and feel compelled to comment. I have purchased real estate several times over the past 20 years. I am not easily impressed by facades, and felt most uncomfortable with an agent in the late 80s who drove clients around in a fancy schmancy cadillac. The car was clean and comfortable, but it was not her real style, and just part of a facade she was trying desperately to create. I was much more comfortable during a more recent real estate search with an agent who drove an older, somewhat messy 4-wheel drive vehicle. He wasn't afraid to be himself, and I felt comfortable with him, and in fact knew I could trust him as a broker/agent, because he was not trying to put on a facade. Certainly not everyone is like me...but I want an agent who is not afraid to be his or her real self with me. And I do buy real estate!

P.S. I wanted to add that I am also not impressed with agents who "dress to impress" and feel compelled to wear extremely professional attire, even on the weekend. Of course, it makes sense to respect the client and the other agents and possibly property owners or tenants enough to dress in clean clothing and to do one's daily hygiene of course, but comfortable attire on the weekends especially really makes more sense. 9 times out of 10 I pick a real estate agent or broker who seems relaxed and comfortable in their own skin. That and honesty and integrity and of course the ability to sell my properties and/or help me find what I am looking for are most important to me.

APR

2008

The customer speaks. I could not agree more and made mentions of the same salient points that the above client echos.

Be yourself and remember a car is a tool, just like a pen. It is not the begin all to end all.

Fascades are superficial and don't create integrity

JUN

2008

When I got into the business I owned a 2004 Chevy Avalanche. This was a very roomy and comfortable vehicle but it was too high to get in and out of for some. Due to theft I had to replace that with something else. I chose an older 1998 Cadillac Seville that was in very good shape and well taken care of. I receive compliments on the car all the time because it's in great looking shape. I picked it because I wanted a comfortable ride not because I live in an area where luxury cars are the expectation. My thoughts are that as long as your vehicle is clean inside and out, it doesn't matter what you drive.

AUG

2008

I recently just bought a new vehicle. I use it both for personal use and for work. Dealing with mostly vacant land I went with a Trail Rated Jeep so that I can take potential clients to and around the properties. With enough power to still tow my boat and safety ratings to haul the family around I love the new Jeep!

SEP

2008

Matthew, I agree with the majority of comments here, we are salespeople and image does matter. You want to present a professional image and appeal to the market in your area. If you are in a rural area a high end Mercedes or BMW would seem out of place and not very practical. If your are in the suburbs and your market includes high end homes then the BMW is what your clients are driving and you are almost expected to drive one. Whether high end or practical, a neat clean car is what matters most :)

OCT

2008

If it's clean and presentable and not too old, I don't think the make or model matters. Quite honestly, if a client bails on me because of what I drive, it wasn't a good fit to begin with.

I agree, as long as it is clean and not breaking down with each client, most client understand that not everyone is going to be driving a BMW, there looking for honest and a good price right now.

Matthew, I think it depends on where you live what kind of car you drive. In my area just about everyone either drives an SUV or a Pick-up truck. A Beemer or Mercedes wouldn't last long on some of the roads we have to go on to show property. 20 miles of dirt is not uncommon. Right now my car is CLEAN, that is something anyway, it isn't fancy but it gets my clients and me where we are going.

Great topic! I think that the issue of image is very important to Realtors.

In our world, image is everything, but I think that one has to be careful not to put on too good of a show. Going overboard when trying to impress could lead to financial ruin.

Quite a few of the people that I know, including an office manager, drive a Toyota Camry. It seems to appeal to a larger group of people, but at the same time, it will not break your wallet.

Eventually, I would love to have a BMW, but I think that I will save up a nice chunk of change first. Being an independent contractor now, I do not want a large monthly payment.

NOV

2008

I would like for my car to be a Mercedes 550 CLS. I'm still working toward getting one. Maybe in 2009.

FEB

My opinion is that the car one drives should reflect their self-image. The question is, how does the car you drive make you feel?

Image... like physical beauty is only skin deep. You are who you are from your core out. It is foolish to try and fool the public with false image. Most people can tell a phony a mile away.

Ones image should be consistent with their values. I am reminded of another word, Hypocrite. For example, if I believe that one should live within their means and I am driving a car I can't afford because I'm concerned about my image, that make me a hypocrite!

So, the answer to: What does my car look like? 2003 Cadillac DTS

MAR

I am currently working w/o one...

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