How important is image in real estate sales?

Question

How important is image in real estate sales? I'm a pretty modest guy, not flashy at all. I am currently working on getting my real estate license and am wondering how much I need to change my image. I drive and old pick up, should I buy a Benz? I do plan on investing in a more professional wardrobe. Other all what are y'alls opinion on the effect of image on real estate sales?

Mike Cumbie · Answer

It really changes and depends on the client(s) you are dealing with at the time. I wouldn't even consider running an Open House on a very nice place in jeans and a T-shirt. Having a rusty old truck out side that when I start up a cloud of black smoke slides through the neighborhood (I have done that... not good).  However if I am out walking a 20 acre hunting parcel, or falling down farm house that may be perfectly acceptable.

In general Clean and neat are acceptable in my area in most instances. Out by the lakes a polo shirt, khaki shorts and flip flops works. So I guess play your audience.

Michael Tal · Answer

It depends. Some may think that flashing your wealth off somehow gives you credibility, so if you believe that then sure go ahead and buy a Mercedes to help you with that. However, in my opinion it's far more about your integrity and your character as a person in which materialistic items won't help in that aspect. As cliche as it sounds, you claim you're a modest person so why not be yourself? People will easily realise when you're out of character and if anything it makes you seem like a slimy salesman who they can't trust if they have a gut feeling that something is off about you.