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I don't feed my Ego, I feed my face.

By Jon Eliason

Real Estate Agent with EXIT Realty Advantage Pagosa, Pagosa Springs, Colorado

August 27, 2012 02:44 AM

I recently had an encounter with a local Agent that told me I should really think about getting a newer car. (He was trying to sell one of his). He said mine didn't stick out!..... OMG!, REALLY???!!!

I used to have an All Terrain Full sized Ford and I do have to admit, it did get me out of some pretty hairy situations. The bad thing about it was that it got 14 miles to the Gallon, (Highway). I decided, back in 2008 that the vehicle I wanted was for me, not anyone else. I preferred to get something that was a sedan, front wheel drive and got great gas mileage. It didn't have to be pretty.

I have a 2001 Chevy Malibu. It's clean and it works. Nuff said.

It gets 36 mpg on the highway and 28 around town. It's also got front wheel drive. (It works, especially in the Winter in these mountains).

Long ago, I let go of material things. To me, they were status symbols of the time. Back then, I had to have the newest, the best, the latest.... anything....

Okay, my car isn't a luxury sedan, I'm okay with that. It certainly doesn't change the way I do business. My concern in this business is to get my Client the best deal, he or she can possibly get. Not to make sure that I have clean leather seats. Heck, 99% of the time my clients ride in their own vehicles anyway.

I grew up in a large family and I like to think that the values I got were worth more than anything money can buy.

My "mid-life crisis" came 20 years ago (if you want to call it that) and only reinforced the belief that I help others before I help myself.

My Clients comes first and I don't need to dazzle them with my car.

Sure I spend money, who doesn't??? But I think I put it where it is absolutely necessary. As an example, my son is Type I Diabetic and he'll get insulin long before I 'll ever think about driving a Luxury Car.

Heck it would probably get worse gas mileage anyways...

I have noticed another thing.... I eat alot.... :)

And that other agent? He really needs to get rid of that 6th car...

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Karen Fiddler, Broker/Owner

Karen Parsons-Fiddler, Broker 949-510-2395 - Mission Viejo, CA

Orange County & Lake Arrowhead, CA (949)510-2395

I get more clients envying my Jeep and liking the statement it makes...so there. Good post.

Aug 27, 2012 03:56 PM

Reuben Fine

Fill-In-The-Blanks PDF Flyer Templates www.TurnKeyFlyers.com - Rossmoor, CA

I guess it all depends on your market. In LA and OC for example, having a nice glamourous car can really add umph to your business. In other markets San Diego and Carlsbad for example, luxury cars have no effect.

It's all about what makes you comfortable.

Aug 27, 2012 03:57 PM

Bryant Tutas

Tutas Towne Realty, Inc and Garden Views Realty, LLC - Winter Garden, FL

Selling Florida one home at a time

I just upgraded my 1999 Ford Expedition. I bought a 2002 Sebring Convertible. I paid $2,800 for it :) My 2nd car is a golf cart that we use to get around our 55+ community. I work from home and don't work with buyers. Rarely drive. Pretty much just to buy groceries and Dr appointments. I don't need no fancy car!!

But I do agree it depends on yoiur market and what works best for you and your business.

Aug 27, 2012 06:02 PM

Richard Arnold

Keller Williams Realty East Valley - Tempe, AZ

Realtor - Tempe, Chandler, Mesa, Gilbert, Phoenix

I never thought I needed a snazzy car, but I agree that people notice, they talk about it, and they tend to assume you are successful and very good at what you do when you drive a luxury car. I don't know if it translates into more cooperative clients, but people are impressed. They tend to have the impression that you work harder than the average guy.

I'm not the kind of person who knows how leverage those impressions or really wants to use it to sway someone's opinion or actions. Having driven low-end cars for most of my life, I find luxury cars very, very comfortable and I'd like to drive one all the time for Real Estate tasks. In a different career, I drove a sports car 3 to 4 times a week, because it was fun, and only 20 minutes, not from one end of town to the other! I hope everyone is comfortable in what they chose to drive, or drive by necessity.

I drive a sub-compact economy car because it's a PITA to fill up the tank every other day when you're showing properties across a large metropolitan area. It's rare that a client is riding with me, and they aren't doing a Forbes review on my taxi service.

My first month, I thought I needed one of those magnetic signs on my car - almost like it was going to give me the power to park anywhere or cause gated community guards to salute as I drove past - sheesh! I saw a few signs on a few other agents' cars and decided against it. I draw attention and questions just by wearing my Realtor® badge in public places.

Aug 27, 2012 06:08 PM

Cindi Susi

Keller Williams at the Beach - Lewes, Delaware - Lewes, DE

Jon, I agree. The car doesn't make the man. Those who needs big expensive and fancy cars to fill some kind of void in their ego are lacking something in life. For the most part high end clients are very down to earth people and have worked their butts off. They appreciate the simple things in life. The high end clients who look at status symbols like cars, are those that I call "full of fluff". Keep being true to yourself and your clients and conscious will thank you. P.S. I too grew up in a large family of 13 ! I think it was a very humbling experience and help to appreciate what's really important in life.

Aug 27, 2012 07:40 PM

Jon Eliason

EXIT Realty Advantage Pagosa, Pagosa Springs, Colorado - Pagosa Springs, CO

Sheila ~ Hi there and thank you. It's an absolute pleasure knowing you as well. BTW, how are your kitties?

Sharon ~ Thanks. I do have to admit something though. When I lived in the Bay Area, I was very materialistic. They had a saying "You have to make your age, to make it." Of course, that was 30 years ago. I think it went with the territory. Thanks again :)

Richard ~ Niiice. I think we all do what works for us. ANd if we feel good about it, that's what counts. Thanks... :)

Fernando ~ I couldn't have said it any better. I think certain Markets and certain areas call out for the "Tools" to be fitting of the area. I know that is the way it is in certain towns out in California. Los Gatos, California comes to mind... Thanks :)

Joy ~ 2 things that stuck out about your comment: 1. The fact that YOU loved it. and 2. You didn't name off 5 or 6 other cars. There was a little ego thing there about how your clients liked it, but I like to think we all have to stroke our egos every now and again. Some just seem to do it on a constant basis. I don't see you fitting into that pompous category. Thanks for commenting. :)

Kathy ~ That is the very essence of this post! You rock! Many of my well to do clients are the same way. They didn't come from old money. They worked for everything they have and can totally understand & appreciate being down to earth. Thanks for stopping by. :)

Pamela ~ That is so true! The rat race out there was so obvious and it truly was a dog eat dog attitude most had. Again I think it went with the area. Thanks :)

Gretchen ~ I like your remark about how it "Fits". Many of us seem to be quite practical and we do what works for us and that is key. Thanks :)

Mike ~ That is so cool. I love those kinds of seats... the ones that you almost become part of. Comfort wins again! Thanks :)

Hi Myrl ~ Yep, I agree. I too have clients of all income brackets. I'd much rather have them remember me for the deal I got them than the car I drive. Thanks :)

Judi ~ You are so right. I think if someone buys a vehicle more for the status than anything else, the materialistic side shows and yes, buyers will notice. Thanks :)

Kathy ~ Niiice. Having a vehicle that works for us is what counts. After all we are the ones that drive them, right? Thanks for visiting. :)

Andrew ~ You still live there and I couldn't agree with you more. The majority of the Bay area has the same perception and it works for you. There are many places around the world with the same mindset....I bet you don't have 6 cars though. Thanks :)

Chuck ~ I think buyers are more interested in getting a great deal and optimum service, period. Thanks :)

Karen ~ LOL... too funny. The fact that there was a singular vehicle mentioned says it all. You didn't mention five other cars. Thanks :)

Reuben ~ Indeed! Being comfortable with ourselves is what it really boils down to. Thanks. :)

Bryant ~ The area we live in does in fact dictate what is accepted or what is the norm. Thanks. :)

Rich ~ There is nothing wrong with having a nice car. The point I was making was that when you need 5 or 6 cars is when it just gets a little out of hand. Oh and that Realtor® Pin? It does do wonders, doesn't it? Thanks. :)

Cindi ~ Thank you. I think the attitudes of Old Money and New Money vary substantially. Those that worked for everything they have seem to be the ones that really don't care about our cars, but more about what we can do as Realtors® in providing them with the best possible service. Thanks. :)

Aug 27, 2012 09:49 PM

Michael Setunsky

Woodbridge, VA

Your Commercial Real Estate Link to Northern VA

Jon, agents should get a car that is suitable and functional for them. I don't know a client yet who purchased a home because of the car an agent is driving.

Aug 27, 2012 10:28 PM

Andrew Mooers | 207.532.6573

MOOERS REALTY - Houlton, ME

Northern Maine Real Estate-Aroostook County Broker

Jeeps have always been my preferred ride with rural real estate property listings, showings.

winter sports cars

Aug 27, 2012 10:30 PM

Wayne Zuhl

Remax First Realty II - Cranford, NJ

The Last Name You'll Ever Need in Real Estate

Good morning Jon - I couldn't agree more. Little turns me off more than an overinflated ego with a car to match :)

Aug 27, 2012 10:32 PM

Amanda Christiansen

Christiansen Group Realty (260)704-0843 - Fort Wayne, IN

Christiansen Group Realty

There is an agent in my old office that always had to have the best vehicles. I would hate to see how much he owed on the brand new BMW he bought. Well, he probably leased it. Either way, we drive Pontiacs, both a few years old, and are about to get new vehicles because of how many miles we put on them.

An agent that is focused on image is focused on the wrong thing in my opinion.

Aug 27, 2012 10:37 PM

Jon Eliason

EXIT Realty Advantage Pagosa, Pagosa Springs, Colorado - Pagosa Springs, CO

Michael ~ I agree. I think when anybody purchases a vehicle, they should purchase it for them. If they were to buy it for the sole purpose of flaunting it, that's when the ego steps in, IMO. Thanks. :)

Andrew ~ There are so many great SUV's that will get the job done. Jeeps are quite common up here. Nice pic :) Thanks for visiting. :)

Wayne and Jean ~ Yeah, I know what you mean. I left alot of that, "Trying to impress people" when I got out of High School. Of course, there were still a few that lingered through my 20's as well. lol... Thanks. :)

Jared and Amanda ~ Yup. We all have our priorities, some are just in different places. Thanks. :)

Erica ~ Tha't key! Loving it because YOU love it is what matters. What others think should be irrelevant. Thanks! :)

Aug 28, 2012 12:32 AM

Ralph Janisch ABR CRS Broker

Janisch & Co. - Conroe, TX

Selling Northwest Houston to good people like you!

I'm with you Jon. We drove a CRV until it began to give signs of wearing out.... slipping transmission, engine had to be rebuilt and radiator all going out around the same time. We've got a son who said we should get something newer now because it will help us sell real estate..... hmmm.... we're driving a 2009 sedan and it still looks great. Granted we'd like to have another CRV but it's not in the cards right now.

Aug 28, 2012 01:39 AM

Adam Brett

The Adam and Eric Group - Fullerton, CA

The Adam and Eric Group, Fullerton's Finest

Great post Jon, I am completely in agreement with you. Don't spend time trying to create an image of yourself, just be that image in your day-to-day transactions. Why look like an amazing realtor instead of just being one?

Aug 28, 2012 03:05 AM

Paul & Diane Boykin

Keller Williams Realty Greater Athens - Watkinsville, GA

I drive a 2000 Honda Accord - only 129000 miles, leather seats, have had no clients say they don't want to get in!

Aug 28, 2012 03:17 AM

Bob & Carolin Benjamin

Benjamin Realty LLC - Gold Canyon, AZ

East Phoenix Arizona Homes

As long as it gets a person from point A to point B it seems it would be good enough. Our 2 cents.

Aug 28, 2012 03:40 AM

Anthony Jones Jr.

RE/MAX Executives - Woodbridge, VA

CDPE Woodbridge, Lake Ridge, Dumfries Homes For Sa

Michael, great post...that's why I continue to drive my 2004 honda accord. Great on gas, paid, and once you clients know you are a great realtor who cares what you are driving. As long as you keep the inside clean of course.

Aug 28, 2012 04:18 AM

Evelyn Kennedy

Alain Pinel Realtors - Alameda, CA

Alameda, Real Estate, Alameda, CA

Jon:

I am not about my car. I drive a 10 year old Subaru Outback which is perfect for me. We have a fancy car, but I rarely use it. There are more important things than the age and make of an auto. Providing great service to my client is my primary goal.

Aug 28, 2012 04:28 AM

Phil Leng

Retired - Kirkland, WA

Phil Leng - Retired

Hi Jon,

The values we live by.

The great Obama Depression has helped many millions of people recenter on what is important, and what is not...

Phil

Aug 28, 2012 09:17 PM

Jon Eliason

EXIT Realty Advantage Pagosa, Pagosa Springs, Colorado - Pagosa Springs, CO

Jeanne & Ralph ~ I know what you mean. My Boo, that's what I call him, is now having issues with the drivers side front window. I thinks it's a gear inside the door. I need to take it apart and replace what needs fixing. Still, he runs great, I just won't mention the window to anyone.... oh shucks, I already did.... ooops ;) Thanks for dropping in. :)

Adam ~ I actually do want folks to have an image of me, but I'd prefer to have them think, "Great Service" than "Bling Bling". Thanks. :)

Paul & Diane ~ Niiice. I know of a few Agents that actually leave fast food wrappers on the front seat.... gross... I do have to admit though I carry my fishing pole and some lures in the back seat area, in the event I have 15 minutes to test the waters... lol... thanks. :)

Bob & Carolin ~ Exactly. I mean, that's all it does anyways... Thanks for the "Sense"... :)

Anthony ~ So true. As long as I keep presentable on the inside, that really is all that matters. Thanks for visiting. :)

Evelyn ~ IMO the car will never make or break a sale. If someone thinks they need Bling to bring about a sale, they may want to consider and evaluate their Real Estate Skills first. Thanks. :)

Jay ~ LOL. wow, what can I add to that? Nothing. you summed it up in a nutshell. Thanks for dropping in. :)

Phil ~ Hopefully that will become quite evident, come November. ;) Thanks :)

Aug 28, 2012 09:47 PM

Sharon Parisi

United Real Estate Dallas - Dallas, TX

Dallas Homes

Jon, great title! You have spoken true words of wisdom!

Aug 30, 2012 04:59 PM