Liberated from being defined by what you drive

By
Real Estate Broker/Owner with 3:16 team REALTY ~ Locally-owned Prosper TX Real Estate Co. #9001154

I know it's just a car - ie. material "stuff" and that life is so much more than that. BUT, like anything else, especially in a society and a community like Frisco Texas - a northern Dallas suburns, one of the fastest cities in the country, it's hard not to see the glam glam around you. And the wish you had them too.

Recently I had yet another God-teaching experience. Far more than the last 2 years.

Back when I became a full time realtor, and found my place on AR (in 2007), I learned a "Million Dollar" lesson. I was not mentally and physically ready when my first lead called. A $700,000 buyer for Starwood. I knew I needed to make the connection right away but I was already out for the day - in a sweater and running shoes because I will be helping my friend move. That lady was sweet and respectful and I ended up promising her that I will be doing a little preview for her before we met. A few days later, as I was in one of the properties previewing, I saw her with an agent in a white Mercedes and a suit!

Instantly I was convicted of what I did wrong. I hadn't played the part. And as much as I want to think I was awesome with my honed Frisco real estate knowledge, I didn't get the first impression right.

It might sound superficial but I did end up buying a few nicer suits and a luxury SUV I paid cash for. So I drove that car for 7 years, and traded it in for a newer version - yet I hated the look of that car, never cared for it.

But I couldnt do anything else. It wouldnt be right if I went from "luxury" to "normal" - how would people view me and my business?

 

Just a few weeks ago, as God prepares my heart, I felt I could move on, trade in my car for one I think that would suit my family's needs better - this season of my life.

The burden to please lifted off my shoulder. I have no one to please or to prove to anymore! 

 

I'm a person of Faith and in my quiet moments today, God convicted me of Romans 12:

"Do not conform to this world. Instead, be transformed into a new person by changing the way you think. Dont think you are better than you really are. Be honest in the evaluation of yourself. Just as our body has many parts, each has a special function, so is the Body of Christ. We each have our own function (so no condemnation for those whom I dont agree with). If your gift is to serve others, serve others well. If God has given you leadership, take that responsibility seriously. Do not pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong but hold tight to what is good. Love one another with genuine affection. Never be lazy. Work hard to serve the Lord enthusiastically. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!"

#convicted and need I say no more....

 

Comments (13)

Tammy Lankford,
Lane Realty Eatonton, GA Lake Sinclair, Milledgeville, 706-485-9668 - Eatonton, GA
Broker GA Lake Sinclair/Eatonton/Milledgeville

Lots of agents in my market drive the luxury cars, but I just never went there.  I had a 4 year old when I started in this business and her safety and family needs always came first in my choice as long as it was roomy enough for clients and dependable. 

Mar 23, 2015 10:01 AM
Fred Griffin Tallahassee Real Estate
Fred Griffin Real Estate - Tallahassee, FL
Licensed Florida Real Estate Broker

     Clean and in good condition, roomy and comfortable.  That may be a Mercedes S Class; it may be a 4-wheel drive SUV.   Whatever suits you and your market!

Mar 23, 2015 10:37 AM
Liz and Bill Spear
RE/MAX Elite 513.520.5305 www.LizTour.com - Mason, OH
RE/MAX Elite Warren County OH (Cincinnati/Dayton)

Loreena, We have one luxury car (a BMW X-5), but we bought it because we wanted it, not because we were worried about client impressions.  It's comfortable and we can make the 7 hour drives to Liz's home in Maryland and not arrive feeling beat up.  Recently, I bought a used '13 Kia Soul.  Bright red so it will be easy for my buyers to follow me, and with the back seats down the yard signs fit with room to spare.  Not fancy, but heated seats for the winter and does everything else I need.  And I wrote a check at the dealership so walked away with no extra debt.  All criteria met :)

Mar 23, 2015 12:21 PM
Frank Rubi
Frank Rubi Real Estate, LLC - Metairie, LA
FrankRubiRealEstate.com

My car is now 7 years old. I'm planning on purchasing a new one in the Fall.My car fits me. I have a large market that I cover so comfort is my goal. I have what I have because it's what God has given me. 

Mar 23, 2015 12:48 PM
Lana Robbins Realtor ® Licensed Real Estate Broker
Aloha Kai Real Estate - Clearwater, FL
Licensed in Florida, Washington, and Hawai'i

Hi Loreena. It may be that the buyer wanted someone to show her properties now. It may be due to the other agent taking the buyer more seriously not necessarily her suit or car.
 

Mar 23, 2015 01:58 PM
Loreena and Michael Yeo
3:16 team REALTY ~ Locally-owned Prosper TX Real Estate Co. - Prosper, TX
Real Estate Agents

Looking back, it might look shallow at the time, for the decision I make. At 28, I looked like 20. Not that it mattered but I guess I was trying to find my place in the real estate world - to be honest. And now, it doesn't really bother me anymore. 

Mar 23, 2015 07:56 PM
Loreena and Michael Yeo
3:16 team REALTY ~ Locally-owned Prosper TX Real Estate Co. - Prosper, TX
Real Estate Agents

It's not about the CAR, but what it symbolizes in my life. I feel such burden lifted - the desire to please men.

Mar 23, 2015 08:00 PM
John Meussner
Mason-McDuffie Mortgage, Conventional Loans, Jumbo Loans, FHA, 203(k), USDA, VA, - Walnut Creek, CA
#MortgageMadeEasy Walnut Creek, CA 484-680-4852

Good for you, Loreena.  I made the decision long ago, that if someone doens't want to work with me because I don't believe in flashy toys, I'd be better off, because that's not the type of person I need in my life or my business.  I'll never own a luxury car.

Mar 24, 2015 07:41 AM
Kim Boekholder Utah Real Estate
Results Real Estate 801.580.5624 - Draper, UT
Broker, Results Real Estate

 I like my VW Jetta its a diesel car and gets great mileage.  We drive A LOT and always make a trip or two every year back to  Washington from Utah.  I have  17 year old that drives my car a lot too and with insurance rates and where we are financially having a new luxury car is not in the works.  I do have a car I really want, but I am saving to buy it cash.  It will be a few years but worth it.  If someone doesn't like me for my car, I feel sad for them.  Such a shallow way to judge people, but its taken me 42 years to get to this point.   Loreena, I'm glad you have had that burden lifted-  I always enjoy your post.  You are an inspriation! Keep it up :) 

Mar 25, 2015 05:08 AM
David Shamansky
US Mortgages - David Shamansky - Highlands Ranch, CO
Creative, Aggressive & 560 FICO - OK, Colorado Mtg

I am impressed that you chose to do the right thing and I believe you will be blessed and better off for that decision.

Well done

Jun 02, 2015 01:42 PM
Morgan Evans
Douglas Elliman Real Estate - Manhattan, NY
LICENSED REAL ESTATE SALESPERSON

Great post, hopefully now you have a great car that both your clients and you love. We don't drive any cars here in this market, but sometimes car service.

Jun 09, 2015 05:25 AM
Laura Filip
Laura Filip Broker , Opening doors for All Seasons of Life - Whitesboro, TX
What can we do for you today?

 although I agree the car should not define the Realtor .... it does in fact make a difference. My previous car was a Mustang shiney bright red, now the car shown is what I drive.... does it make a difference yes it sure does. 

Jul 17, 2015 09:21 AM
Anonymous
Betty

I saw you and your hubby on Dave Ramsey debt free scream and stalked you to here:-) sorry...would love to meet!!! My hubby and I live in Lewisville!

Oct 21, 2015 05:05 AM
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