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Should Brokers Enforce a Dress Code For Agents?

By Lorraine or Loretta Kratz

Services for Real Estate Pros with Crescent Moon Realty, Inc. & Land N Sea Auctions.

March 15, 2008 02:30 AM

Many agents that I see out in the real estate arena, are shockingly dressed in such an unprofessional manner. In the corporate world it is a must that you show up in attire that is of a professional nature, recently I was invited to a real estate seminar. and when I observed the individuals coming in I was disappointed in how under dressed most of the agents were. Here is where I find most agents cross the line.

Coming in with clothes that need pressing, or to be dry cleaned.
Clothes that do not fit (ladies--please look at yourself in a mirror before you leave) Blouses in which the buttons are being strained is not attractive.
Wearing inappropriate attire, jeans, overalls, and the like all have a place, but when your out on a listing presentation --- please dress in a professional manner.
Having stains on your clothes, yes, food that lands on the front of your clothes leaving visible stains, need to be address immediately. Sure there will be times when you cannot do anything about accidentally get food or spilling a drink on yourself, but try to take care of it as soon as possible.
Men what is it with not shaving and or getting a hair cut that is a becoming style? How about practicing good grooming.
Men and Ladies --lets look at your shoes, why not take them in for repair or have them polished on a regular basis. This was one of the most flagrant offenses.
Men how about keeping your shirt tails tucked in.
Running suits are for running. Not meant for use as professional attire.

These are just highlights of what I saw at this seminar. Many of us use professional stagers to maximize the presentation of a home. Should we not be as REALTORS putting our best foot forward when out in public.

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Jerry LaRose - Orlando Fl Real Estate Expert

Orlando Realty Partners, Orlando Short Sale Specialists - Orlando, FL

Orlando Fl Real Estate Expert, Short Sale Expert

Lorraine & Loretta, You are so right.. I recently go a listing because I came dressed in a shirt and tie. I'm hoping it's also my marketing. Good post

Mar 15, 2008 02:36 AM

Kevin Robinson

Twin Falls, ID

Fractional Developer

Right on the money. As someone who has been selling a product of some kind for years, I can tell you that it is a proven fact that you must sell yourself first. Life is not fair, but what you look like does count for something. Your "rules" are pretty basic and don't take much effort- I hope.

Here is another one that gets violated frequently- brush your teeth!

Another nice post.

Mar 15, 2008 02:38 AM

David Slavin

Keller Williams Premier - Katy, TX

CDPE, ABR, SRES Keller Williams Premier

I don't think brokers should have a dress code because if agents want to look sloppy then they will lose business and we will be there to get the extra business. Just a thought although not a very good one.

Mar 15, 2008 02:48 AM

MARK GUNDLACH

eXp Realty of California - Ladera Ranch, CA

I can't say I agree 100%. Grooming standards I can concur with but, I do not believe that as a Realtor I need to wear a suit and tie in order to be good at what I do. You used the analogy of a lawyer and a car salesman. Don't even we as sales people think those car salesman look ridiculous baking out in the sun with their suits on, and coming at us with their cheesy sales tactics? Have you ever walked into a lawyer's office unannounced? Do it! You will see them dressed mostly business casual, but I have even observed them in shorts at times. When they go to court, yes out of respect for the judge and the court system they put on the uniform but, many see their clients in casual attire.

I read an article in Broker-Agent magazine recently about one of the busiest and most respected brokers in the Newport Beach area. Mark Whitehead arrives at his client's multi-million dollar estates in his Rolls Royce wearing shorts and flip flops. He knows that his clients may wear the suit at their office but, at home they relax just like the rest of us. His business thrives on his personal touch, and his clients appreciate his laid back look coupled with his "give it to you straight" attitude.

I can't say I take it to that extreme but, I dress how I am comfortable. I dress like me! I think everyone would agree that the more comfortable you feel, the better you will come across to your clients or potential clients. So, the notion that we should have a uniform so to speak or a dress code, is just obsurd. I say to each their own. And if there are those out there that still feel that Realtors who wear a suit everyday while they're out prospecting in 90 degree weather, and sweating through the 3 layers topped with a wool jacket, are better than the rest of us... the rest of us who spend make more of an effort developing a relationship with our clients rather than impressing them with how we dress or what car we drive...so be it!

Jun 18, 2008 07:10 AM

Should Brokers Enforce a Dress Code For Agents?

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